Do you feel like your career is floundering? Here are 5 questions to ask yourself and tips to get it going.
1. What am I really into?
Do you love what you do, but want a change? Make a list of the tasks you like about your job and the ones that put you off.
Then, let your imagination run wild and ask yourself what you want to keep or remove from your daily life, then what you would like to add to it.
Write down everything that comes to mind, even if an idea seems far-fetched.
2. What can I offer a business?
“Know thyself”, said Socrates.
Don’t forget your qualities and your faults – your personal characteristics, after all.
Are you generous, ambitious and a little lazy when you have to accomplish this or that task? Be objective and name things as they are.
You will know what you need to work on to transform a defect into a quality and thus achieve your goal. There is no point playing the ostrich!
Also ask the question to a colleague or a friend you trust, or to your better half: their answers could surprise you and enrich your thinking.
3. What skills am I missing?
Learn about the knowledge or skills required to make your change successful.
Then take action!
How? ‘Or’ What?
- Readings
- Conferences
- Workshops
- Discussion groups
- Internships
And why not consider a return to the school benches? For example, if you want to take on a job that involves management responsibilities, a few college courses might give you the knowledge you need for a good start. Nothing will then prevent you from continuing to perfect certain notions.
Your change doesn’t have to happen right away. The simple act of taking actions that will lead you towards your goal will put you in an advantageous position and encourage you to continue.
4. I doubt… who can help me?
Inform your manager of your desire for change and discuss the possibilities within the company. Perhaps he has already considered changing your duties or giving you more responsibility.
A guidance counselor could be useful if you want to think “alone” first before talking to your manager.
You can also ask someone in your professional network whose background inspires you to answer some of your questions.
He can put you in touch with people in his own network to help you further and may offer to accompany you in your efforts.
5. When do I get started?
Now! There is no point in procrastinating.
Don’t wait until your youngest has started school or until the project you’re involved in is finished.
Several organizations cover the cost of training or activities necessary to acquire knowledge or skills. Inform yourself!
If your boss can’t offer you the responsibilities you want to assume, continue your efforts by including the job search or the possibility of starting a business.
