Part 2 in a 3 part series.

You may not know all the details about your dream career or job, but that doesn’t mean you’re starting from scratch or that you have nothing to offer. Life and career transitions often begin with the inkling of an idea that a new way of being, working, and living is possible. Begin by acknowledging and owning that you want to explore new options, then you can enlist others to help you fine-tune your goals. Mentors, peers, community leaders, old college roommates, family members, and fellow alumni are all sources of information and resources on your career and life journey. 

As you ask for support, be prepared with some information your allies can use to help you reach your goals:

  • How do you want to work? Consider the desired location, skills, roles, colleagues, organizations, and projects that you want to explore in this next phase of your work and life. 
  • Take stock of what you hope to gain, accomplish, or create. Draw from research into organizations and companies with projects, initiatives, and products/services that are aligned with your goals. This information will  help you articulate the nebulous parts of your goals to your friends and allies.
  • Investigate and ask others how best to prepare yourself for your new career goals. Do you need to meet new people, network in new circles, or gather more background information? Your supporters may be just the leads you need to get to the next level. 
  • Be confident about your new path, and open to input and constructive critique from others. Transition and exploration require us to step out of our comfort zones. Your vulnerability with trusted supporters can open up new ideas and approaches. 

While not allowing others to distract you from your goals is important, what is equally important is allowing them the opportunity to support you while you reach them.  When you can articulate your vision to others, it allows them to rally to support you. It also allows information and resources to come your way, while opening opportunities that you otherwise wouldn’t know about if you kept silent.  Mentors, peers, and a career coach can help to sharpen your vision once they know what you want. Allow those in your circles to help you in your journey toward success.

In case you missed it, you can read part 1 of this series here. 

Facebook Comments