Who is calling the shots in your career? If you feel like you're simply drifting along with someone else's agenda, it's time to take a more intentional approach. You want to ensure you're not just existing in your job, but thriving in a role that resonates with your passions and strengths ...
Calling the shots now, In control of my own fate, Destiny awaits
First, let's establish that uncertainty in your career is common, especially during times of economic uncertainty like we're living through right now. Perhaps you've found yourself overwhelmed by the expectations of your organisation or influenced by factors outside your control, like family obligations. The pivotal question remains: are you steering your career towards something that excites you?
Or are you merely going with the flow?
A great starting point is to evaluate your daily routines, particularly if you're currently working from home. Implementing structured working hours can help you draw a clear line between work time and personal time. Set specific ‘home' hours to discourage the toxic habit of being available around the clock. While it might feel like a badge of honour to respond to emails at all hours, remember that your mental well-being significantly affects your productivity.
As you establish boundaries, think about how you can break the cycle of taking on too much. This often leads to burnout and even resentment towards your role. If you're in a managerial position, cultivate the habit of empowering your team by asking them for their suggestions on problem-solving. You'll not only free up your time, but also encourage a culture of ownership and initiative.
Next, allocate time every week to work on your career rather than just in it. This could be dedicating half an hour to:
Reflect on your goals,
Evaluate your current position, and
Assess how well it aligns with your personal values.
Are your daily tasks and role reflective of what you genuinely value in a job? Identifying and revising your goals can reignite your passion and purpose in your work.
Another useful strategy is to maintain an updated portfolio of your contributions. Documenting your successes using the WHO Model™ - What you did, How you did it, and the Outcomes you achieved - will not only prepare you for performance reviews, but will also bolster your confidence when considering future opportunities.
Finally, take a moment to set intentions for yourself. What do you want to achieve in your career, and how do you want to feel while you're doing it? Taking the time to clarify this is a vital step in calling the shots in your career.
It's time to reclaim your narrative and take control. Start actively calling the shots and defining the path that brings you the fulfilment you seek. Each small action you take today will contribute to a more satisfying career tomorrow.
Remember, you are the architect of your own professional destiny!
If anything in my blog post resonates with you and you'd like some further help and advice with your career, then why not get in touch today? Call me on 07941 690391, visit my website at davecordle.co.uk to see ways I can help and support you, or connect with me on LinkedIn and let's start a conversation.
I began my professional life training as a cartographer with the Directorate of Overseas Surveys, a department of the British government. I made maps of places such as Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Sudan and the British Virgin Islands. It was a fascinating time, being involved in planning the flights for aerial photography, interpreting the photographs and eventually producing the plates for the different layers of the final map.
It was during my latter years as a cartographer and my career in computing that I undertook bigger mountaineering expeditions to the Andes, the Himalayas, the Tien Shan and the Caucasus. At that time I also held various leadership roles in scouting. I coached and trained young people successfully leading them to develop themselves and embrace new experiences. So that’s where my passion comes from to help young people learn the strategies for success that I share with my business and career clients.
My journey in personal professional development and coaching has been amazing, and will continue to be so: it’s why I’m here, it’s my big passion. It’s what has informed my vision and mission.
However unlikely your dream might seem, if you keep taking steps towards it, even small steps, you may well just surprise yourself.
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