“Can’t Wait To Get To Work”
That’s a pretty bold lead-in, isn’t it? Particularly, when today’s marketplace has executives feeling disempowered with little to no control over their future. There is no magic formula though I can offer several action steps which over time will have you triumphantly stretching out to
secure your careerbrass ring.
How do you jumpstart the journey?
First, you embark by wholly knowing who you are and what makes you distinct. And the only way to realize the fullness of your purpose is through self-awareness and clarity—by accepting yourself inside and out, strengths as well as weaknesses.Those big hopes and dreams of yours demand a powerful foundation which is built one building block after another as you embrace yourself wholeheartedly.
Secondly, it’s time to determine how you want to show up in this world—your identity. When you’re 105 and sitting on your front porch reminiscing over your life: “What do I want to be known for? What achievements will I be proud of at the end of my life?”
Thirdly, discovery alone does not support your identity targeted action is required as well.What do I mean by this? Let me offer an example for clarity. One of my identities is as a weekly blogger. This descriptor necessitates writing every week. It doesn’t matter whether I feel like it or not—I write. It doesn’t matter whether I’m overwhelmed with busyness or not—I write.If for some reason I’m unable to generate every seven days, my identity as a current blog writer is no longer accurate. I can be deemed a past author of blogs just not a present one!So, even without recognizing it, our habits—me, with writing—have a lot to do with
how we see ourselves and how the outside world perceives usas well as our chosen destination. The question to ask yourself, and then, track is: “What actions do I need to take on that are authentic to my identity?”And please, don’t make the mistake of thinking your identity is as shallow as: “An executive who earns xxx salary per year” or “my identity is CEO.”Related:
The Most Effective Way to Influence OthersThe fallout from colorless check-off the box outcomes are empty and unsatisfying. You are unique. Such shallow intentions don’t express the richness and context of your dreams. As with the mule and the proverbial carrot, fulfillment is always just out of reach unless the real you is driving the cart
Fourth, you must open the door to discomfort. It’s true as research reveals that the more we touch our strengths and passions, the more fulfilled, productive and successful you’ll be. However, if those are the only areas, you groom, your preparation is lacking for a future which is vastly different than who you are today. Determine what skills, attitudes, and behaviors you want to acquire now to actualize the future you.
Fifth, being overwhelmed or underwhelmed is your enemy. Attempting to do everything that comes to mind is a surefire equation for failure. Ask yourself daily: “What is the biggest action I can take now that is on my way to me envisioned destination?” No kidding, no excuses. You can’t allow life to stop you from becoming all you intend. On the other hand, spending even a day of providing only the bare minimum is a stumbling block to your success as it becomes a harmful habit that stymies your achievement momentum.By daily following through with these action steps, you are always
traveling toward your career desires. And don’t forget to enjoy the journey that after all is what life is all about!
