Sadly, we woke up today to hear of the passing of David Bowie, a music icon who certainly had a major influence on the music world. Interestingly, his messages were often about finding one’s way in life.
Changes
One of his biggest hits, “Changes,” begins with the line “still don’t know what I was waitin’ for.” In the professional world, this may be the refrain after the loss of a job. Often, we see the writing on the wall, but don’t take advantage of the time to get it together and begin positioning ourselves for the future. Today, job loss can also be quite sudden. A seemingly normal day can change quickly with a call to meet with an HR representative. The reality of today’s workforce is that we should work hard to enjoy and positively contribute in the role we’re currently in, but always keep looking towards the future and prepare for potential changes that might come our way.
“Every time I thought I’d got it made, It seemed the taste was not so sweet.” You may be in a job or career that is supporting you and your family, maybe even very well, but it might not be giving you a sense of purpose or fulfillment. Ask yourself, do you need a job change or do you need to change the way you do your job? Are you making the most of your life from a personal, professional, and family perspective? If not, maybe it’s time to step back and consider options to add more meaning to the aspects of your life in need of an adjustment.
Change = Career Growth
“I watch the ripples change their size but never leave the stream of warm impermanence.” Few are the people who spend 40 years with a company, retire with a gold watch, and live happily ever after. Yes, different levels of the corporate ladder are often reached, but career growth can be limited when one stays with a company too long. There was a time when loyalty was mutual between a company and their employees, but the reality of these economic times make change for you an important part of a successful career and consistent employment. Love what you do, love the company and the people you surround yourself with, but don’t get complacent. Keep your eyes open for opportunity both inside and outside of your current work situation.
“Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes Turn and face the strange, Ch-ch-ch-ch changes, Pretty soon now you’re gonna get older.” So it’s important to always be aware of the possibilities of change and to do the best you can to be prepared by aligning yourself with people who can help you map out your future.
Future blogs will focus on how to be prepared for change through personal branding, networking, developing your work persona and other ways.
Ken Sher is a Career and Life Coach who focuses on the whole person when helping them with professional or personal issues they are trying to manage. If you would like to reach out to Ken, please call him at (215) 262-0528 or visit his web site at shercoaching.com
