Charting a Fulfilling Career Path: Navigating the Great Resignation and Finding Purpose
Are you one of the millions of employees mulling over your next career steps? A staggering 61% of US employees are considering handing in their resignations in 2023, according to a LinkedIn survey. The pandemic brought about the Great Resignation, leading many workers to reflect on their careers and life's direction.
Feeling ready to make a significant career or life transition can be overwhelming. The possibilities seem endless, but fear not. There are three foundational steps you must take to find the clarity you seek. As an executive coach who has helped countless individuals with their career transitions, I know that embracing these steps establishes a powerful foundation for a journey of fulfillment and purpose.
Thinking about a Change?
If you're part of the ongoing Great Resignation, you might be experiencing wage stagnation, rising living costs, or a lingering sense of job dissatisfaction. Whether you're in the environmental or sustainability sector, you might be confident in your commitment to protect the planet but uncertain about your role or organization.
Too Many Ideas and No Clarity
The desire for change might burn within you, but not knowing where to start can be disheartening. The possibilities seem endless: going back to school, quitting your job, starting a new business, moving to a new place, or exploring uncharted territories.
LinkedIn and job boards can leave you feeling underprepared to pursue new opportunities without clarity on your goals.
Clarity is Closer Than You Think
Wherever you are in your career, three foundational steps can unfold a pathway that instills confidence. Let's dive into them:
Step 1: Become Introspective Like You've Never Been Before
Instead of seeking guidance externally, tap into your deeper intuition. Reflect on what truly matters to you - your values, interests, and passions. Unearthing your innate strengths is key to defining a fulfilling career pathway.
Putting Step 1 into Action: Commit to an introspective process and complete self-assessments. Interview people who know you well to gain insights into your strengths. Reconnect with your core purpose by reading books that inspire you.
Step 2: Don't Do This Alone - Engage Your Team
Creating a support team is crucial as you navigate this journey. Seek a coach or mentor for clarity and guidance. Consider courses or books that provide structured processes for exploration. Engage a supportive colleague as you explore your options.
Putting Step 2 into Action: Design how you will engage your support team throughout the introspective process and beyond. Remember, your support system is there to assist, not dictate your choices.
Step 3: Change Your Mindset to Embrace Possibility
Your mindset plays a pivotal role in your transition. Avoid getting stuck in negative thought patterns. Instead, open your mind to new ideas and opportunities that align with your values, interests, and passions. Embrace uncertainty and welcome a little discomfort.
Putting Step 3 into Action: Embrace a mindset of exploration and view the process as success. There's no 'right' answer; it's about the journey of discovery.
Launch Your Transition Plan
Remember that making a major career or life transition requires careful consideration, planning, and self-reflection. Approach the process with an open mind, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace change. Your path to fulfillment and purpose awaits!