‘I am over this place’
‘The boss is dumb’
‘The wrong decisions are always made’
‘Can you believe they did it again?!’
If you find yourself thinking and/or saying these kinds of things, the chances are its not them, its you. Perhaps you:
- Have been in your role for too long.
- Landed in the career you have because you are good at it, or it was a good idea at the time.
- Couldn’t find anything better.
If you can relate to any of the above, then it is time to do a career check, to see what is really going on and make sure you are in the right job and career. Your authentic and intentional career. Do this with your values in mind. Your values are the things that are important to you in your life. They are core beliefs and principles.
See the following list to help you identify what is important for you:
- Integrity
- Authenticity
- Honesty
- Respect
- Responsibility
- Empathy
- Compassion
- Fairness
- Trustworthiness
- Accountability
- Independence
- Collaboration
- Creativity
- Innovation
- Excellence
- Continuous learning
- Personal growth
- Work-life balance
- Health and wellness
- Sustainability
- Social justice
- Diversity and inclusion
- Financial security
- Adventure
- Freedom
- Family
- Friendship
- Community involvement
- Recognition
- Leadership
- Service to others
- Environmental stewardship
- Philanthropy
- Spirituality
- Harmony
- Peace
- Joy
- Fulfillment
- Purpose
- Happiness
Now let’s look at what is going on in your career:
What are your career drivers? Ask yourself about the following:
- Passions: What excites me most?
- Principles: What values guide me?
- Talents: Where do I excel?
- Impact: How do I want to impact?
- Joy: What brings me happiness?
- Challenges: What issues do I care about?
- Lifestyle: What aligns with my values?
- Inspiration: What motivates me?
- Fears: What holds me back?
- Legacy: How do I want to be remembered?
Taking the time to consider these and what they mean for you will help you align your values and the career and work you want to pursue.
Dig deep in your reflection.
If you feel as though you have to justify your position, then do more thinking and see how you feel and what sense you have after that.
If you are working in your career with greater alignment of your values you are less likely to be upset and critical of your job, company and boss.
Making values-based career decisions
Now that you have settled on your values and what your career drivers ask yourself:
- Does my career suit my values?
- Does it suit what I want to achieve?
Note down where things are aligned.
You will be much happier in your career if you feel aligned to the work you are performing.
