Being clear about what ignites you and how you can add the most value is critical for one’s success and fulfillment.

In working with leaders at all levels, from emerging to senior level leaders, it is not uncommon for their agenda to include what’s next for them in their career.  And, it’s all too common that many people, even those who have been in the workplace for decades, accept or continue in roles that don’t align with who they really are. They don’t align with their passions, their purpose, their strengths, and/or their values. The good news, for my clients – and for you if this resonates, is we all have choice. We can make changes, regardless of our age and experience.

As humans, we have a tendency to stay with what is familiar and comfortable. If this is you, ask yourself

• How is this serving me?
• What value am I deriving by remaining complacent?
• What do I want?

I was speaking with a leader recently who is working to figure out what is next for him. Instead of considering the possibilities, he was focused on the challenges of figuring it out – problem solving. The reality is – he, and all of us, have a choice to see things as obstacles or opportunities. In this situation his own self-doubt and limiting beliefs kept pulling him backwards.

In order to “figure it out”, or more important, get clear and be open to choice, one needs to step back.

My request to this leader was:

• Make a list of what you want to make sure you can continue to do in your professional role, whether in your current role or a new one  – that would align with your purpose and your values.
• Identify what you no longer want to “tolerate” – what you want to say “no” to.

Next, I challenged him to make a list of all of his strengths that contribute to his professional success, and specifically highlight the ones that he would like to use to contribute to his professional success. His response was excitement. He started to connect with what might be possible. He realized he had not taken the time to gain clarity and focus, and was simply spinning his wheels. Addressing this exercise helped him to remember that he does in fact have tremendous strengths and does not have to “settle”.  He has choice.

It’s easy to get caught up in the cycle of not feeling like you have options; this often spirals into feeling like you are not enough.  

What has helped you in the past when you’ve run into this type of cycle?

I am honored to have the privilege of supporting my clients with these types of challenges and much more. If you or someone in your organization is looking for a thought partner, let’s connect.

“Everything that has happened to you is either an opportunity to grow or an obstacle to prevent you from growing… You choose.” – Wayne Dyer