Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Your Career

A career is more than just a way to earn a living; it combines so many parts of our personal lives, so it's no wonder it affects our emotions. Understanding and managing these feelings is key to both personal happiness and professional success.

In case you haven't been able to answer, "Why do I take it so personally?" Here's my take on why your career dramatically impacts your emotions and some tips on building resilience.

It's Related to Our Identity and Self-Worth

Sense of Identity: Many people define themselves by their careers. Job titles, roles, and professional achievements often form a significant part of personal identity.

Self-Worth: Success and recognition in one's career can boost self-esteem and self-worth, while failures or setbacks can negatively impact one's self-image.

What Can You Do?

• Develop interests and hobbies outside of work to create a more balanced sense of self.
• Cultivate personal relationships and community involvement to build a broader sense of identity.
• Practice positive affirmations and self-compassion, especially during setbacks.
• Celebrate small wins and personal achievements, not just professional ones.

It's Responsible for Our Financial Security

Economic Stability: Careers provide the income needed for basic needs, lifestyle choices, and long-term financial goals. Job loss or career instability can create anxiety about financial security.

What Can You Do?

• Create a budget and financial plan to manage your income and savings effectively.
• Build an emergency fund to cushion against job loss or career instability.
• Develop a backup plan and keep an updated resume and LinkedIn profile.
• Continuously upskill to stay adaptable and increase employability.

It's Where Our Social Connections Begin and Thrive

Relationships: Workplaces are social environments where people form relationships, friendships, and networks. Positive interactions can create a supportive community, while negative ones can lead to stress and emotional turmoil.

Belonging: Feeling like a valued member of a team or organization fulfills the human need for belonging.

What Can You Do?

• Build positive relationships at work and seek out mentors.
• Join professional groups or networks to expand your support system.
• Practice active listening and clear communication to build strong relationships.
• Address conflicts as they iccur to maintain a healthy work environment.

It's Where We Grow Personally and Professionally

Learning and Growth: Many workplaces provide opportunities to learn new skills, take on challenges, and achieve personal growth. Career progression often mirrors personal development.

Ambitions and Goals: Achieving career goals is a source of pride and fulfillment, while unmet goals can lead to disappointment and frustration.

What Can You Do?

• Commit to lifelong learning and professional development.
• Seek feedback and use it constructively to improve your skills and performance.
• Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
• Reflect on failures and setbacks as learning experiences rather than personal flaws.

It Requires Adaptability to Change

Change and Uncertainty: Careers are often subject to changes such as layoffs, mergers, and shifts in industry trends. Navigating these changes can be stressful and emotionally challenging. Building resilience in the face of career challenges is a significant emotional journey.

What Can You Do?

• Stay informed about industry trends and developments.
• Be proactive in adapting to changes rather than resisting them.
• Practice mindfulness and stress management techniques such as meditation or exercise.
• Build emotional resilience through activities that boost mental health, such as journaling or seeking therapy if needed.
• Prioritize a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout.
• Set boundaries to ensure time for rest, relaxation, and personal activities.

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?? I'm Osnat (Os) Benari I?wrote the book "Starting From Scratch?-?Manage Change Like Your Career Depends On It"?and it's?packed with tips?to help you build?a resilient career.

?? Check the link in my bio for helpful resources for hashtag#startingfromscratch