So You Feel Stuck in Your Career? by Martha D. Karimi

Author:Martha D. Karimi [Martha]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Martha D. Karimi
Published: 0101-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

Maximise awareness

Earlier, we discussed feelings as the signposts that raise your awareness of what you are good at and whatnot. When you maximise understanding and acceptance of your strengths and areas of struggle, you move along with less friction and more efficiently in figuring out your growth and development. Every feeling is a messenger drawing your attention to what to focus on, what to let go of and what to explore further. Stay aware of your enjoyable roles and those that are likely to fast-track you to the burnout zone. Not necessarily because you are doing too much of these. But because you are doing less of what sparks the light in you.

When you raise your awareness this way, the questions you ask as you review potential job descriptions evolve. For instance, you ask, “How will I feel when executing such tasks most of the time?” With potential employers, you are keen to know, “What will success look like within the first six to twelve months?”

Knowing the organisation’s focus gives you a sense of the spirit required for the role, what most days will look like, and whether this is the type of work that is pleasurable for you.

Like everything else, tuning up your level of awareness is a practice whose muscles grow with time. Reflections and external honest feedback help by shining a light on your strengths. Here are a few exercises you can consider incorporating into your career journey.

The work pleasure diary

What work has gifted you with pleasurable feelings today?

Consider keeping a diary if you wish, for the next 30 or 60 or 100 days. Record every day at least one task that brings you joy. You enjoyed immersed in these. You loved the results you created. You wish you could only have just that on your desk every day.

In addition, record a few more tasks that felt like the complete opposite. What felt draining and frustrating? Not because you can’t do it. You are perfectly skilled, actually, but this work drains the life out of you.

The Friends Circle Challenge

Step into this challenge with a curious and open mind.

The essence of this challenge is to uncover your hidden strengths and talents in a safe space.

Choose four to five people who have closely observed and engaged with you in your day-to-day work, as well as at least one person who has interacted with you in social settings.

Make sure the individuals you choose are people who you believe have your best interests at heart. Who believe in your potential and want you to blossom.

Invite your trusted circle of humans to reflect on the questions below. Then go for a date with each or all to capture their reflections. Listen with an open heart and a free mind.

When I think of (insert your name), I see these three superhero traits/skills in them. And I’ve seen them come out in these situations.

I think what (insert your name) should be doing more of is... They appear to enjoy it but don’t get enough of it.

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