If you are feeling overworked, stuck in a rut, confused about where you are headed or are looking for that elusive work-life balance, then it is probaby due to The Career Itch. This is what I called the inner restlessness I experienced around my own career on Millennium Eve.
Whilst the lucky few know what they want to do in life, most of us get there through trial and error. This may sound a bit haphazard, but I discovered that focusing on taking the next step rather than hoping for a career epiphany will take you in the direction you want to go both in the short and long-term. You may look enviously at those who have found their life purpose, but most of them will have got there incrementally. Discovering the best next step on your career path is just as valid as arriving at your ultimate dream destination, and even that will continue to evolve.
If taking the next step feels daunting, then fear not. When looking back over my own journey and those of my clients, I’ve seen a pattern emerge, which is outlined in the following four steps. These will help you take control of what you do next.
Step 1 - Identity: Knowing who you are
If you don’t know who you are, then you won’t know what you want. Before you even think about going to a recruitment agency or updating your CV, you need to do some inner exploration. You’ll need to uncover your true personality and identify your talents – it’s very common to think you haven’t got any, but think again! Focusing on your transferable skills rather than previous job titles is important. Also, consider your values (often neglected) such as what you look for in an employer or what makes a difference in your work. It is crucial to discover how all of these relate to your career.
Step 2 - Thinking: Clarifying what you do next
Now you need to go deeper still, so you can uncover any limiting beliefs that may be subconsciously holding you back – beliefs such as ‘I’m not good enough’ or ‘I’m afraid of responsibility’. If you don’t, you may unwittingly sabotage your efforts. Once you have taken care of any inner gremlins and replaced them with empowering beliefs, you can focus on your aspirations – and don’t be afraid to aim high! At the same time, you’ll need to look at your needs including practical aspects such as money. You will then be ready to consider your options and find the best next step for you, whether this is a new job, becoming your own boss or having a little of both.
Step 3 - Change: Making a successful transition
Moving on to the next stage is often the scariest part. You may become fearful or even demotivated, but these feelings are all part of the transition and are normal; they are not an indication that you are off track. Once you have made the decision to move on it is human nature to want things to happen quickly, but it is essential to plan ahead whether it is learning new skills, networking or being strict with your finances. You may be tempted to ride off into the sunset without a backward glance (particularly if you are leaving a job or boss that you dislike), but remember to exit gracefully, so that you leave on a positive note and don’t burn any bridges. All of the above will help to smooth the change process.
Step 4 - Habit: Achieving a balanced lifestyle
Once you have made the transition and found the best next step on your career path, you need to look at your working habits in detail and put your career into the context of your whole life. This will help to ensure your career remains a source of positive fulfilment. Work-life balance is about so much more than getting home in time to put the kids to bed or taking up a new hobby. It is about caring for yourself (in terms of sleep, healthy eating, exercise and so forth), spending quality time with family and friends, and other opportunities such as giving back to your local community or other ventures. In other words, a fulfilling career should be just one aspect of a fulfilling life. This is true balance.
Taking the Next Step
You are likely to experience The Career Itch several times in your working life, but you can use it (and the four-step process) to move forward. I can say without reservation that my experiences of The Career Itch have helped to shape my identity and been a catalyst for positive transformation in every area of my life. It continues to guide me in my work as a career coach. If you feel overwhelmed and don’t know which way to go or which choice to make, remember that you don’t need to find the answer to your entire career right now – you only need to discover the next step.
About the Author
Grace Owen is a career coach, speaker and author. For over fifteen years she has equipped hundreds of leaders, managers, professionals, freelancers and business owners to excel in their work.
To buy Grace’s book The Career Itch – 4 Steps for Taking Control of What You Do Next, (£9.99 excluding p&p) or to find out about her coaching and speaking services, please visit www.grace-owen.com.
By Hiren