If you’re reading this article, it sounds like you’ve got a transition happening in your life. While some turning points arrive quietly, other changes might come swooping in as a result of a crisis. Either way, most of us are not entirely happy when change shows up, because it can be scary and confusing. Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to leverage whatever challenge you are facing, and this will give you a few places to start.
One of the easiest places to begin, happens to be a critical step that most people miss – taking inventory. Gathering this information is going to help you get a better perspective on where your life stands right now – personally and professionally. So, here we go:
On a notepad, I’d like you to write out a list of all the things that are actually working well in your life. Try to capture as many things as you can. Perhaps in your personal life you’re enjoying some great friendships, you have an interesting music hobby, you’ve settled into a good workout routine, or you have fun social events on the horizon. Additionally, what is it that is working well for you in your professional life? What part of your work do you find enjoyable? Are there key relationships that have positively affected your career? Just write it all out. It’s very encouraging when we realize that some things are actually going quite well, personally and professionally.
Next, I want you to consider the parts of your life that are not working so well. These could be things that are wrong, missing or confused. Take out your notepad again and create a new list – writing out everything you can. You will find this exercise a lot easier if you’re not sitting at home in front of your computer. It can be really helpful to go for a walk or get outside, as its easier to reflect and access how you’re feeling about things.
Fantastic! Now you’ve collected a nice inventory of your life – what’s working and what’s not working. Your next step is to select two goals for yourself – one personal goal and one professional goal. What matters is that these two goals line up with what’s important to you, and what would bring you a sense of meaning and success. You want the payoff for reaching these goals to be worth the work. Once again, take out your notepad and write down your two goals. These first steps are the keys to making powerful changes and getting your life back on track.
I really want to encourage you, because over and over again, I have witnessed the gift that comes on the backend of major life upheavals and changes. Even though you may not have welcomed the change that has shown up in your life, if you just keep moving forward through the initial chaos, a whole new life chapter will begin to open up – one that you weren’t necessarily expecting – and one that you will be a lot more excited about. You will arrive at the place where your true interests lie. You will discover the things you are doing that must be stopped, the new choices and actions you must lean into, and what in your life needs heightened attention. This outcome is what makes my work as a coach so exciting – seeing people live more inspired lives.
I hope these short tips will get you started. If you’re serious about your two goals and getting the best possible result, please don’t hesitate to contact me for a complementary chat. I’d be happy to learn a little bit about what you’re trying to do and share with you how I support my clients in achieving the big changes they’re pursuing.
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