Create a CAREER That Brings You Joy!

One of the keys for creating a career that brings you joy is to build on a strong foundation based on your values. Create a career that you are passionate about, as a “wanted” commodity, and remember to have fun too!

One of the best ways I know to create a new career is to start one while you are employed. However, there are some people who start looking because they find themselves fired, laid off, quit a bad job, or home taking care of their family.

START WITH YOUR VISION
Imagine that you have just won the lottery and, in order to receive your check, you must have a full time job. What would you be doing? Would it be what you are doing now? If not, ask yourself “Why?” Do you just need to add a little fun to your career Or – are you not happy with your current position and feel ready to go for what you REALLY want to do?

Here are ideas on how you can make the most of where you are or get to where you want to be.

 Choose a career that “makes your heart smile.” Your desired level and commitment will keep you going during rough times.

 Understand that knowing your top 5 values, needs and wants will help you maintain your integrity and is the basis of decision making. Resources: Awaken the Giant Within by Anthony Robbins, Strengths Finder by Marcus Buckingham and Donald O. Clifton, Ph.D.

 Prepare yourself financially when transitioning into your new career. Be sure you have a reserve of money in the bank or another source of income. Even with the best strategies, situations may occur that end up costing us more money than planned. Resources: Your CPA, Tax Advisor and Financial Planner. Often Coaches can supply you with budgeting templates and recommended books, too.

 Build a strong support system. Create a career network as well as friends. Join a success group or a networking organization, and hire non-biased assistance to help you stay on track during your business evolution. Resource: Google search for career counselor, career coach, career help.

 Recognize your strengths and build from them. Acknowledge your weaknesses and failures. These are life’s way of providing us with valuable feedback to help us learn. You will grow from your decisions as long as you remain flexible and adapt to change. Resource: Now, Discover your Strengths, by Marcus Buckingham and Donald O. Clifton

 Remember to choose to be organized and consistent. Finding your ideal career is a job in its own right.

 Develop your boundaries and standards, because they affect your business too! Resource: article Setting Professional Standards and Boundaries by Maria Marsala https://www.elevatingyourbusiness.com/blog/, and try a Google search for boundaries, standards, ethics.

 Continue to examine your progress. When business is no longer fun, it is time to reassess what you are doing. Even better, step back and assess your “fun quotient” every six months. Hey… Maybe it is time!

For a listing of books mentioned in this article visit our recommended books list. Look under the Personal Development Section.

(c) 2000, Updated 2011 Maria Marsala Are you an executive who is ready to create a business or career that brings you joy? If you need help in any of these areas, Elevating Your Business would be glad to be of assistance. Request a complimentary session today. or join our newsletter to become a free member of the Elevating Your Business Nation!.