Many people place importance on their career. They want to have a comfortable living, make use of their talents, and make a notable contribution in their field of work.
We all have
the common career goal of achievement, yet most of us do not have the results
we desire. Why? With the age of information, we have access to the tools and
training we need to reach the desired destination. We have access to mentors
and networks that can share valuable wisdom and advice. Yet there is a sense of
frustration with lack of progress. People are unhappy in their jobs, but feel
stuck. People are unhappy with their title, but have no plan of action to
change it.
If you are
disappointed with the direction of your career, it can usually be mapped back
to a question. A single question, yet a powerful one. Questions are often an
underestimated tool for growth. A good answer to a powerful question can
illicit a response; one that can cause a mind shift, which leads to a change in
action, and a change in results.
The most
valuable question for career advancement is…..
What
is your next career move?
How you
answer this question can shed insight into the current state of your career.
When I ask
this question, I usually get the following responses…..
I want to move into
leadership, but I am not sure if I want to deal with personnel problems.
The problem
with that statement is that it is conflicting. Any leadership position will
have you working with people. Mentally you will subconsciously hold back on
your own goal because of conflicting thoughts. What happens in this case? Your
thoughts cancel each other out and no results are gained.
I want to be promoted
with my current company, but I do not like the direction that the company is
going in.
Another
conflicting answer. Your goal is promotion, but you are not aligned with the
company vision. It is like saying I want to go to the Olive Garden restaurant,
but I do not like salad. Your mind will be confused, and a confused mind does
not achieve desired results.
One of the
most common responses is “I do not know my next career move”. That response
indicates that you either have a job that pays the bills and you are content
with that status, or you would benefit from some self-reflection/self-discovery
work to determine your next career move.
In order to
confidently answer what your next career move is, it requires some
self-reflection. You have to really sit down and think what you want in your
next role, why you want it, and mentally commit to your decision. Any wavering
will delay progress. A person that is confident, aware of what they want and
why they want it will surpass someone who is undecided.
Engaging in a
self-discovery exercise is critical to understanding and choosing a career path
that is right for you. Invest in the
time to research your strengths, wants and desires. People will be willing to
help you achieve your goals if you can give them a clear vision of your future.
Jewels Bolden
Jewels Bolden
is a profound believer in the journey of self-discovery. She has dedicated
herself to helping others find their own paths. If you’d like to work with
Jewels, please check out her workshops and speaking opportunities,
view her coaching
services, or contact
her directly to learn more.
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