What do you do for work?

Have you ever froze when someone asked "what do you do for work?"

Do you feel embarrassed, put on the spot, ashamed or shy?

If you relate... you are not alone.

Early in my career as an accountant I felt this way. I felt like I had not progressed in my career as fast as I should have. It was an insecurity of mine.

As my peers were already climbing up in their organizations as managers, directors, or founders, I would think to myself....

• "I am a student still."
• "I am just a staff."
• "I am just an auditor."
• "I am still waiting for a promotion."

I realized I tied too much of my personal identity to my JOB TITLE.

Using the words "I am" pigeon-holes us into an identity, and with identity comes stereotypes, judgements, and biases. The fact is, we are more than just our jobs. We are service providers, caretakers, motivators, planners, strategists, problem solvers, family members, community developers, educators, volunteers, and developers.

"I organize and analyze data into easy to read visuals to help make better decisions."

"I help businesses solve complex problems."

"I teach people to be more productive and focused in their lives."

So, what do you do for work?