May 17, 2017 “Ask Patrice”

Dear Patrice, I recently worked on a project that had some problems and minor issues. How should I discuss this situation with my boss?

Here’s a three-step process to position yourself and your work in the best possible light moving forward:

1. You should proactively raise the issue FIRST and not wait for your boss to do so. Acknowledge the fact that things should have played out differently but stick to the facts. I have had people literally apologize for things I never knew had occurred, so chances are your supervisor may not know every detail. After the conversation, outline and/or draft a brief summary of the obvious “mistakes” and what you and others will do in the future to prevent it from happening again.

2. Now that you have told your boss what she or he needs to hear, you need to look for the root cause of the problem. Did things not work out according to plan because there was no organization, because things were left until the last minute, or because others dropped the ball? Or was it simply a matter of unclear expectations. For example, you CAN control how long others speak by both advising them well in advance that there is a 5-minute limit but, by also having a “moderator” and process in place to jump in - when they don’t. Your goal is to uncover the real reason things will be different. Remember, the best way to prove this is to not just TELL others what will happen but to SHOW them the next time around.

3. Your ability to bounce back from mistakes and all that life dishes out is all about attitude. Embrace a growth perspective where you seek to learn from everything that happens, especially those things that don’t end up well.

Mistakes happen despite our best laid out plans. This week think of these and other ways to communicate, grow from, and create success from mistakes and mishaps. Remember that life is what happens while we’re making (and hopefully learning from) other plans.

Ask Patrice – How can I improve my finances to make a career move, when I don’t make lots of money?

Now that Tax Day has come and gone you may be more focused on your finances. Enhancing your financial picture is difficult but possible if you simply change your approach to “saving.” Aside from taking on a side hustle or new job with a better salary, the best way to put more money in your pocket is not to make more but rather to reduce your expenses. Here are seven easy things that you can do to instantly shave hundreds off your monthly bills.

1. Select a more cost effective phone and Internet service provider: Years ago when I worked at AT&T I learned that customer service reps are required to tell you about ways to reduce your bill – but only if you ask. It’s still something that very few people take advantage of. Call your service provider and ask, “what is the best (i.e., most cost effective) plan based on my calling and data usage habits?”

2. Request a lower interest rate on credit card debt: Again, this is something that can be done – IF you ask. This courtesy can be extended to anyone, not only the “best customers” with perfect credit. Call your credit card company and explain that you saw another credit card with a much lower interest rate and are thinking of transferring your current balance to another company. Many financial institutions will offer you a lower rate on the spot. If they don’t, ask to speak to a supervisor in the “loyalty” department. Remember, saving even 2% off your current interest rate can translate into more than a hundred dollars over the course of the year.

3. Tap into employee or association discounts: Did you know that working for local, state, or federal government agencies (including College’s and Universities) or select private sector companies qualifies you for government and reduced rates at hotels? These rates are sometimes as much as 25% cheaper than what you can find online. You also may be eligible to receive discounted prices at stores, restaurants or transportation providers like Amtrak for being a member/alumni of a college/university, professional association, or organizations like AAA. Before booking that summer vacation, research your eligibility for discounts offers and rates.

4. Return or sell new and unused items for cash or store credit: Take those unused clothes with the tags still on back to the store. Many companies will offer you a store credit for things you don’t want or can’t use. Look into stores that will buy your items outfight or on a consignment basis (i.e., they keep 60% and you get 40% of whatever sells). Use the newly found money/credit for something you really need.

5. Swap cable for a streaming service: If you are still paying for cable tv - STOP! Changing to a service such as Sling, Hulu or Netflix can quickly save you money.

6. Change your withholdings on your W-2 income: Increasing the number of withholdings on your W-2 income can mean less of a tax return at the end of the year but more money in your pocket each month. Even if you are single with 0 dependents, you can claim multiple withholdings. Check with your HR department for more information.

7. Reduce your personal expenses: We’ve all heard of the “latte” factor – being able to save hundreds of dollars a year by cutting out daily and weekly trips to Starbucks and other expensive coffee shops. Similarly, you can cut back on entertaining – a primary contributor of long-term financial problems. Make it cool and fun to be thrifty by going “all you can eat”or bringing your lunch and eating with co-workers who are doing the same. On the weekends, invite friends over instead of the expensive night out. Do whatever you can to minimize what you spend. Encourage your friends and family to do take the savings challenge with you and together find and share creative ways to cut costs.

Financing a career change at any age or stage is doable with a little creativity and effort. Even if you are living paycheck to paycheck, everyone can make little changes to create big savings. This week stop your financial grind and start working smarter not harder when it comes to “saving” by reducing your expenses.

April 5, 2017 Seven Things to Think About When It Comes to Figuring Out Whether Your Are Stuck or If You’re in a Professional Holding Pattern.

The Living on Purpose Project recently celebrated our 2nd anniversary on April 1, 2017. It was a great opportunity to celebrate where we have been and to get excited by what lies ahead. However, sometimes you reach a milestone yet don’t feel like you have anything to celebrate because you feel stuck.

The next time you are feeling like you are in a rut or in a place you don’t want to be – consider that you are in a professional holding pattern. Here are seven common career holding patterns and how to adopt a new perspective when facing them.

1. I hate my job:

Most people experience this feeling a few times throughout their lives, often early on and in the middle of their careers.

Turn your frustration into motivation by making a list of everything this crappy experience is teaching you about what not to do and what type of job you want to be sure to avoid moving forward.

2. I don’t know what I really want to do:

Start by reading the Living on Purpose Project interviews and posts (arranged by topic in our Archives). Then begin doing whatever you are interested in. Think you’d like a job as a social media specialist? Help a friend develop social media pages and posts for their small or new business. Sometimes you can improve your job satisfaction by simply doing more of what you love outside of the office.

3. I can’t make a lateral move into another dept or area:

Unfortunately, you may have to leave your current organization in order to be considered for a bigger and brighter opportunity. Companies of all sizes generally focus their time and energy on senior executives – making opportunities for everyone else non-existent.

4. I am in business for myself but can’t find any new clients or customers:

Schedule time to socialize. Social events are a great place to network professionally. Mix things up and hang with a new crowd of like-minded people. Doing so might be just the thing to clear you for takeoff into something new and put an end to your holding pattern.

5. I can’t find another job:

In today’s competitive landscape, you need to consider jobs that you are overqualified for and underpaid to do - at least initially. In time you can leverage that experience to find a bigger and brighter one. In the meantime, take time to review your resume and see if there are things that may actually be hindering you from getting hired. Does your resume demonstrate you are an industry “outsider” because of the lingo you use? Changing a few key words and adding more industry-related experience could help you stand out from the competition.

6. I want to launch my own business or take it to the next level but don’t have the money:

Start with a strong plan and a dynamic web site that highlights your work and experience, and helps you cast a wide net to find potential clients. However, the best way to raise the needed capital is to create a side-hustle while working for someone else.

7. I have tried many things to put myself out there but nothing seems to be working:

Be creative and persistent, and you may simply have to give it time. Many holding patterns are necessary – while the next great job or opportunity is waiting to present itself. Maximize your time waiting by staying focused on what you have learned that can be applied to your next move/opportunity.

Anniversaries and milestones are often fun but can sometimes be depressing and make us feel that we are not where we want/think we should be. This week consider that you may be exactly where you are supposed to be right now. Instead of feeling stuck or in a rut, think of it as a necessary holding pattern to prevent you from taking another job or opportunity that is not right for you. Keep positive, perfect your skills and your craft, and learn from your interactions with everyone you meet. Sooner than you think, that next opportunity you’ve been waiting for will present itself.

March 15, 2017 Seven Things to Think About When It Comes to . . . Common Communication Mistakes 80% of People Make.

It has been said that 80% of conflict is a communications issue. I recently had a minor conflict with a neighbor that was caused from her literal and figurative inability to hear and understand what I was saying. This morning I thought that when it comes to life in general most things that disconnect people have to do with what and how things are said. It may sound silly but we all need to brush up on key types of communications. Check out these seven questions to see how you score on professional communications.

1. How do you ask for a raise or promotion? The biggest mistake people make in not getting a raise or promotion is lacking confidence and being “mousey.” Would you want to give more money to someone who can’t look you in the eye, use a firm and clear voice and command your attention and respect? No, you wouldn’t - so why should your current boss or potential future employer.

2. How do you introduce yourself? Do you have a memorable way of meeting people? If not, you should. Tell others that you mean business with your initial conversation and your first impression. You’ll get brownie points for making social connections i.e., asking questions or using body language such as nodding your head and smiling. I introduce myself as a master problem solver.

3. How do you present information and yourself? Whether it’s an interview or a PowerPoint presentation, the best way to “communicate” your knowledge and ability is to be prepared, knowledgeable, and on time. Always communicate the W.I.F.M. factor (What’s in it for me?) and K.I.S.S. (Keep it Simple for Stupid). This is certainly not insulting anyone nor their intelligence but rather a great idiom to remind you to be clear and concise.

4. How do you deliver an apology or explanation? Chances are whatever bad news you have to deliver – it’s best to go with a sincere ‘less is more’ approach. I have seen many people talk themselves out of an apology by focusing on themselves and not the other party. If you say or do something that you wish you hadn’t – speak on and move on.
But before you do, remember that people want to be heard, so shut up and listen. Equally, learn how to find a positive spin in any negative. It softens the blow and makes people associate you with something good.

5. How do you ask others to do things? It’s not what you say by truly how you say things. Period. Tone, volume, and frequency affects others. Follow a good rule of thumb – listen twice as much as you speak.

6. How do you relate to co-workers on a personal level? Your goal is not to be the party-girl or after hours guy, but it is good to connect with select colleagues who share common interests. Find ways to strike up neutral topics such as hobbies, work background, and pop culture (minus the politics).

7. How do you express thanks and appreciation to others? Everyone achieves because of the help of others. Find ways to say more than a generic thanks to those who help you in big and small ways.
>Communicate in clear and concise ways. This week practice new ways to ask for things and express what you experience. In time, you will be a seasoned pro at minimizing a lack of communication or misunderstanding.

February 22, 2017 Living on Purpose Project Founder & CEO and Career and Communications Expert, Patrice Anderson, on the entrepreneurial gene; setting personal and professional boundaries; 90s Hip Hop; and not needing to be the smartest or most talented to succeed.

Growing up in the north-west part of Philadelphia, I was encouraged to dream big. Luckily, I was also exposed to many things and participated in many experiences that soon taught me that life is a series of choices. Some work out and many don’t go exactly as planned. I’ve done many things professionally that I am really proud of … becoming one of the youngest Director in the history of NBC … launching a successful PR and events consulting business with only $3,000 of personal savings… and representing the Jordan Brand (Michael Jordan). Truth is, I am most proud of the fact that I have tried everything that I have ever wanted to do career wise. Lucky for me – most things have worked out and even those that did not go as planned – I don’t regret.

Who was the first adult (other than your parents) who encouraged you to believe in yourself and take risks to go after what you want?

My kindergarten teacher Miss Guida always used to use the word potential around me. “Patrice, you did an excellent job at XYZ, you have so much potential, and I am sure that your next XYZ will be even better.” One day I asked her what the word meant and she said that I had a lot of great abilities and could do almost anything I wanted. I credit my first teachers and my Montessori early childhood education for helping me to be independent and self-confident at such an early age.

Early on in your career, did you ever have doubts or consider pursuing another PR niche or field?

I am a problem solver and I like what I do. So, basically, I can work for any business or any Industry. What I like and do best is solving strategic problems and coming up with ways to do something NEW that has been done 101 times before.

Of course, I looked at some of my friends and former colleagues who worked in the music industry and thought that they had the cool jobs. Instead, I took the more corporate (and perhaps in my mind) safer route than many friends who chose to do A&R, marketing and management for major labels and artists. I have a lot of respect for them and everyone who was a Hip Hop pioneer who hustled hard to make sure that Hip Hop what not a temporary genre and will remain forever!

This past Monday, February 20, 2017 the new series The Breaks premiered on VH-1. I loved the movie and am digging the series because it’s basically the soundtrack for a key stage of my life and my career.

I was privileged to know, meet and work with some of the key players who played a pivotal role in how Hip Hop evolved and grew in the 90s. Whether it was going to high school with the founders and senior editors of The Source; going to Central High School party in Philly (where Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince (a.k.a Will Smith ) DJ’d; or going to college in NYC and living in the same dorm as Adam Sandler, I’ve always found myself surrounded with artists and creative types. And, it was nice to live vicariously through other people – it allowed me to meet some of the hottest 90s DJs like (Funkmaster) Flex, Kid Capri, and Frank Ski, not to mention some of the best producers, event planners and celebrity publicists. I had amazing access and experiences. I even learned how to play pool for the first time at a music studio in LA. My teachers were members of a very large entourage of a very well know artist who had a studio session that same day.

I guess at the end of the day I was well suited for the corporate world. But I guess things can and do often come full circle. A decade later I ended up doing sports & entertainment PR.

You had a successful career managing events and PR for mega brands and high net worth individuals like Nike, Jordan Brand (Michael Jordan), AT&T, NBC, Fox and others. How and why did you go into business for yourself? And, do you think anyone can be an entrepreneur or does one need to have the entrepreneurial gene?


Launching a sports and entertainment boutique firm was out of sheer necessity. I was unemployed and needed to pay the bills. I did what I have told thousands of students over the years to never, ever do – start a business without a business plan. I luckily defied the odds. My first client was Fox Entertainment and my second was Nike.

I do think that some people are certainly born with natural abilities as a salesperson or entrepreneur, however, anyone can embrace and cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset. Meaning, don’t sit down waiting for opportunities to come to you – instead stand up and create them.

I actually “pitched” my first potential client, my bus driver, Mr. Robinson when I was 9 years old. The week before a congressman’s kid has sliced open the back of his head on the aluminum siding on the school bus during some rough housing. Since it had happened shortly after pick up from school, Mr. Robinson drove the whole bus full of kids to the ER. And, he had put me “in charge" of the bus while he was gone.

Truth is, I’ve never been the oldest, smartest, most talented, biggest - but at an early age I knew how to motivate people to accomplish an end-goal. So even at nine, I was fully aware that if another accident happened again – Mr. Robinson would be out of a job. A few days later I asked him if I could promise him that I could keep everyone in their seats and that there would be no rough housing - would he pay me?

I still remember the look on his face. He agreed but with one stipulation - that I had to also sweep up the bus on Fridays. I countered by asking for a trip to Dunkin Donuts once a month that would give one donut for everyone.

I made $5 dollars a week. By age 11, I had a “real job” job that paid me by check $120 a month. And, by the time I was 13 years old I ran a very successful babysitting business that earned up to a couple of hundred in a single weekend!

What are three professional strengths that have helped you and can help others succeed?


First, I am a professional problem solver. It’s the one thing I’ve done well in every single job I have ever had. I learned that helping people understand, address, and eliminate their problems is not something that everyone can do.

Second, I am extremely persistent and am not easily intimidated by difficult people or situations – in fact, I often see them as a challenge. For example, as a child I would help my mother when she had a yard sale. One sale, when I was 7 years old, a man tried to cheat me out of money by making it seem that I had counted wrong. I didn’t back down and proceeded to add everything up by hand on a paper bag AND even got a calculator to double check my math. I have no idea why a grown man would try to cheat a child out of $3.75. But I am glad it happened because it gave me the confidence to call people out on things and stand up for myself.

Lastly, I think extremely well on my feet and am a highly creative person who always has AN idea and can quickly come up with a possible solution to ANY problem, situation or need.

What is something that someone told you NOT to do that you actually ended up doing and served you well?

Growing up, people have often told me that I talk too much. I still talk a lot and don’t think it’s a coincidence that I have made a great living in communications.

Throughout my life, many people have also told me that I watch too much TV. I have always loved television, the shows, the scripts, the commercials, the whole nine yards. I literally grew up watching Sesame Street and have been watching TV ever since.

It’s funny but perhaps one of the most redeeming qualities of “reality” TV is that people can learn “how to” do almost anything by watching others. I am a visual and kinetic learner and therefore I learn by seeing and doing. Watching tons of TV has helped me immensely in my career in doing things like writing ads, especially commercials, creating PR campaigns, better understanding Pop culture and much more.

What do you accredit your professional success to?

I always have an idea and a plan (even if it’s mental). I try to make sure that plan is at least two steps ahead of where I am trying to go. That way I’m poised to pounce on an opportunity as soon as it presents itself. As I say to my students, in marketing (and in life) you don’t always have to be best, sometimes it’s merely about who is first. First to see the need, first to focus on an untapped target audience or first to come to market.

Everyone needs a plan to make their dreams come true – it’s called marketing. However, there are many people who, if they won a thousand dollars for life would not know what to do with the money. I don’t have that problem (laughter).

Although I am the type of person to do first and then tell others after I’ve done it, I have several plans that I could easily put into action at any moment. In addition to always creating and tweaking my plan, I talk, think and work very fast. That plus my strong organizational and time management skills often allow me execute the same project/job faster, better and more creatively than someone else.

What is one piece of unconventional wisdom that you learned from someone else?

In my first job out of college, I was charged with scheduling a Wall Street Journal interview with a senior level IBM client. I made a huge mistake and gave the reporter the wrong location (in the pre-cell phone world). As we sat there waiting for the reporter who never showed, my supervisor stayed cool under pressure and gracefully handled the situation and the very frustrated client. Thinking quickly on my feet, I ran back to the office and was able to save the media opportunity (and possibly my job) by rescheduling a phone interview for first thing the next day.

My supervisor never yelled or chewed me out for the mistake because it was “spilt milk” and I had found a way to clean it up. She knew I learned my lesson and would never make the same mistake. That day she taught me that if you are the person “in charge” always remain professional and cool, calm and collected. And, to never forget the devil is in the details!

About Patrice Anderson: Patrice Anderson is passionate about helping people discover and do what they love. A professor, PR and marketing consultant, and career transition expert, Anderson has spent the past 20 years helping individuals, as well as some of the country’s largest organizations including Fox Entertainment, Nike/The Jordan Brand, AT&T, NBC, Alcatel-Lucent, The United States Marine Corps and Burger King, create their vision, shape their brand, and execute their goals.

In 2015, Anderson founded The Living on Purpose Project ® blog and online community to help people navigate career choices and changes in order to live with more passion and purpose. She oversees a wide range of initiatives that provide practical career, employment and business advice, as well as courses and resources to help others achieve personal, professional and organizational goals.

Anderson serves as a motivational speaker and lecturer at New York University, Hunter College, and professional organizations, as well as a broadcast media consultant. She is a graduate of New York University’s Stern School of Business and holds degrees from NYU in marketing and liberal arts. Currently, Anderson is working on her first book, The Living on Purpose Project ®.

Follow Patrice and the Living on Purpose Project on Twitter @pathtopurpose; on Instagram at #pathtopurpose; on Facebook at Living on Purpose Project; and on the web at .

February 15, 2017 Ask Patrice about . . . what should I do when it looks like my supervisor or company are planning to fire me?

Unfortunately, we have all had jobs that were great but we’ve also had several that sucked. If the writing on the wall says there is a strong chance that you and/or your position are on the chopping block, here are seven things to protect you and create leverage in your departure.

1. Connect with human resources, labor relations, and your employee “handbook.” Learn your rights (i.e., does the government agency allow all permanent employees to have up to a year before they can be let go). It’s always good to know starting every job if you can be fired “at will.” All companies are different but most can simply let you go whenever they want to. Understand your review process and if you have had previous positive evaluations of your performance; present a good argument as to why you believe it has changed.

2. Understand the politics: It could be as simple as your VP wants to hire her former colleague and friend to have your job – because that’s her friend. If it’s a personality issue, chances are it will never be resolved in your favor (especially if the conflict is with senior staffers). So dust off your “C.Y.A.” (Cover Your Ass) file that you should have started the moment you got hired. Every “great job” email and “thanks for the help” Post It, (and a copy) of anything positive that internal and external clients have said about you. It’s not too late; ask a current client and others to write a letter about your most recent successful project or general letter of reference. After you have the positive feedback, create a one page summary of your major accomplishments.

3. Document everything: In addition to your CYA file, you need to keep a DAILY log of all communications and connections with others. Did your SVP cancel your review meeting for the 5th time? Are you excluded from meetings? Anything and everything needs to be recorded.

4. Understand the other issues: Unfortunately even in 2017 people are still discriminated against because of their race, age, sexual orientation, gender, religion and much more. If you have solid evidence that this is much more than someone simply not “liking you.” Consult with an employment lawyer to help you better understand your legal options, but most likely to help negotiate your exit with the most money in your pocket. For example, let’s say you’ve worked at a job for the past two years and it’s simply not working out with your new SVP. An employment attorney may be able to guide you to help request and negotiate that the company will pay one week for every year and to NOT contest unemployment.

5. Strategize with professional mentors and contacts that might have knowledge and expertise of both the process and the key players: Truth is you may not want to or be able to pay a retainer and hire an attorney, but you can tap into the “intellectual property” of others. Cast a wide net and ask others for advice and even perhaps how they navigated the same or a similar situation.

6. Circle back with HR: Present all positive evaluations, feedback and input. Communicate your desire to explore potential ways that you can part ways from your employer. Unemployment benefits, extended healthcare or company paid benefits, outplacement services (i.e., help with resume and recruiters).

7. Walk Away: If you have tried all that you could with or without the advice of legal counsel, and you’ve gotten the best severance package you can get, take it and move on. At some point your happiness and freedom to find a new job that you love is worth so much more. As you leave, work on developing the story you will tell to other professional contacts and potential employers.

It sucks to be fired even from a job that you hate. Even if you only have a couple of years of experience, you still may be able to get more than a “thank you and good luck to you.” Brush up on your negotiation and networking skills and assemble a dream team to help assist you with a graceful “positive” exit.

Seven Questions to Think About When It Comes to . . . Things that May be Holding You Back from Advancing Professionally.

Sometimes we’re doing the best we know how but career opportunities are not presenting themselves and we seem stuck in a similar or perhaps even the same place. Here are seven questions to guide you to understand and then make minor changes in how you approach, view, and do things.

1. How well do you think on your feet? You don’t have to be the person who talks simply to hear themselves speak, nor to say things simply because that’s what you think others expect. However, you need to practice and learn how to come up with AN idea or feedback when put on the spot. Being quick with your thoughts and solutions to problems will help make you appear as a credible expert and therefore a valuable asset in any industry or field.

2. Do you think happiness is a right or a choice? If you said choice, you’re correct. Experts have actually proven that feeling happy when it comes to our work life is a skill that must be cultivated. Yes, stuff happens but through meditation and mindfulness you can slowly learn how to keep things focused.

3. How do you strike and engage in a conversation? I once had a client who was extremely well educated, read and traveled. He was a nice guy often put his foot in his mouth or said really inappropriate comments in an attempt to be witty. Create “pick up” lines to engage potential influencers and professional contacts.

4. Are you a problem solver? I learned a very important lesson at my first job out of school – that if you bring a problem to your boss you must also bring a possible solution. This is one thing that separates the average janes/joes from the true professionals. Whether it’s your current coworker or boss, always have a potential way to address whatever you are expecting/asking someone else to solve.

5. How do you blow off steam and stress? Everyone needs healthy outlets to process and deal with stress. Without them - you can be your own worst enemy – and with them a great motivator. Take 30 minutes a day to walk, exercise or do a variety of things to feel more positive to rise and grind another day.

6. What do you do to be memorable? Imagine 100 people applying for the same job; statistics prove that less than 20 will stand out and/or be remembered. Find little ways to break through the clutter and differentiate yourself from competitors. Ask that great question or establish rapport by mentioning a shared friend or associate.

7. What are you willing to do without until you’re able to do the things you love? Embrace the fact that anything worth having takes effort and requires time. Which sacrifices are you willing to make? Dream big but work even bigger to do whatever is required to fulfill your dreams.

When we know better we do better. Now that you are aware of these small things you have (or have not) been doing – the more prepared you are not to let them hold you back the next time.

January 25, 2017 Seven Things to Think About When It Comes to . . . Being the Hero in Your Own Life Story.

Since childhood you’ve heard at least one story about superheroes and their special powers. But has anyone ever taught you how to become your own superhero who saves the day in your career and life. Well, Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat Pray Love may have actually cracked the code. Here are seven ways to become your own heroic figure.

1. Answer the call: “If you want to be the hero of the story - you kinda gotta answer the call.” – Elizabeth Gilbert

2. Hold a mirror to your flaws: Seeing yourself clearly is the second step to becoming a hero. Heroes know who they are and what makes them special. Focus on the special powers you have and work on cultivating them.

3. Prepare yourself for peril: The only constant in life is change and challenges. Become a person who thinks three steps ahead, always has a plan “B” and will be prepared to successfully deal with adversity. Remember, it’s not IF difficult obstacles come along; it’s how you’ll respond WHEN they do.

4. Ride the wave: Superheroes know how to deal with a variety of situations but mostly they simply know how to ride the wave. In an opportunity, ride the wave/go with the flow and when the wave and movement and beautiful views end - so should you. But luckily you’ll have (or quickly create) a plan – to find and then ride another wave.

5. Take responsibility: Growth is about owning a part/role in any situation. Are you deathly afraid of speaking in front of others? Are you intimidated that others are better writers or simply smarter than you are? Own your shortcomings and learn how you can prevent something bad from happening again by being honest with yourself and others.

6. Never waste your suffering: Be empowered to use your mistakes and “failures.” However, there is no need to beat yourself up. When you can share your experiences and lessons with others to turn your misery into meaning.

7. Face fear: Facing your biggest fears head on – frees you. Heroes demonstrate courage – moving forward despite fear. Attack what scares you most and stop running from it. If you want to break into marketing, send out an updated resume that shows your pro bono consulting projects

Heroes help us in many ways, but becoming your own hero makes you qualified to not always have to rely on others to live and manifest a highly successful career. This week follow these simple steps to use a mirror to see your flaws and yourself clearly; bring you to your own attention; and tear down your walls.

December 14, 2016 Seven Things to Think About When It Come to . . . "Betting on Yourself"

A few weeks ago I found some great career advice in the form of a poem. It spoke about how to be a “winner,” but also redefined “winning” as - doing things that most people won’t and don’t do. A loser as being someone who never tries. It’s time to start to learn from every experience you have and every person you encounter.

Here are seven things that you can do this week to create a pathway of winning and succeeding in the game called life.

1. A winner makes commitments … a loser makes promises My advice - share what you are “going to do” only after you’ve started doing it.

2. Winners are not afraid to be wrong … losers have a compulsive need to be right … Thrive on this rule in your professional life. It’s GOOD to fail - it teaches you what not to do again. Period.

3. A winner believes that we make our own luck, either through what we do or what we fail to do … Truth is, nobody controls all things or all people. You “win” in this game called LIFE by simply being in the game.

4. Winners do it NOW! … Losers procrastinate Time management is a skill that either you have or quickly need to develop. Delaying gratification sucks but you have to do it. Live in rushed chaos, ultimately, get you nowhere.

5. A winner knows that the secret to winning is to be who you are and become who you were meant to be. . . A loser thinks he can win by “fitting in” Shakespeare may have nailed this one best “to thine own self be true.” Do what you love and the rest will fall into place. Live. Love. Do!

6. Winners know that it may be difficult but it’s always possible … losers say it may be possible, but it’s too difficult. Life is difficult, and in different ways, tough for everyone. Losers never try or follow through with anything. You are and will always be a winner when you simply try. Then reach out in some way and tell yourself “good job” for trying.”

7. A winner is not afraid to lose. A loser is secretly afraid of winning. Fear of success is more real than you think. What and where do you self-sabotage? STOP IT, for at least one week. You can and will rise to the opportunity. Remember you can do more than you imagine when you’re doing what you love.

Grow and evolve professionally by knowing you won’t always win on the first or even tenth try. Eventually you’ll find your niche and be on your way to being the best you that you can be. This week pick one of the above seven goals and refocus your mind on the things that anyone can do – JUST TRY!

October 5, 2016 Seven Simple Steps to Think About When It Comes to . . . Surprising Ways You Can Get LinkedIn to Work for You

Two people join LinkedIn every second. More than 35% of LinkedIn’s members aren’t just posting their resumes to this leading professional networking site, but rather using it as an interactive tool to proactively help advance their careers. Here are seven surprising ways that people are using LinkedIn to generate job leads, make inroads with recruiters and hiring managers, and effectively promote their professional brands and businesses. As part of our October 30-Day Career Challenge, we’re also adding seven activities that you can do this week to step up your LinkedIn game.

1. Spend time and not money, and boost your numbers: According to Power + Formula 2013 LinkedIn User Survey: almost 85% of people use the free account; 52% spend up to two hours each week researching companies and individuals on the site; and nearly 22 % of users have 500-999 first degree connection. As a career consultant, I encourage my clients to work toward creating a network of 500 connections (unlike Facebook and other social media sites, 500 is the maximum number that appears on LinkedIn). This week reach out to seven new people every day such as former colleagues, classmates, new co-workers, friends of friends, professors, and almost anyone you can think of to increase your first level connection network.

2. Asking for intros and connects: Almost 63% of LinkedIn users make their first level connections “public.” Not only should you do the same but you should also regularly review your connections’ contacts to identify people you’d like to meet or work with. Then use a simple 3-step process to get to know these people: (1) prepare a brief summary paragraph detailing where you currently work and/or what you’ve been up to recently; (2) tell your connections that you are interested in working at XYZ or would simply love to speak to person “X” in their network; and (3) ask if they can introduce you – be sure to include your summary paragraph in your request. Some people will prefer to reach out to the individual first to confirm that they can share their contact info with you. Others will simply send an email to the contact, including your email request/summary and “cc” you. Regardless of how you are connected, be sure to follow up with a “hardcopy” thank you note to the person who provided the introduction. Yes, I said hardcopy. Business etiquette is a dying breed but can really help you stand out because so few people do it. Even in our digital age, an old school thank you card will impress others and make you more memorable than the 80% of people who won’t send one. Another final key point: in a few weeks make sure you circle back with your original connection to let them know what, if anything, has happened as a result of their introduction and to thank them once again. Use this 3-step method with 10 strangers you would love to call “contacts.”

3. Create a weekly buzz: Use status updates to keep your name out there and ensure you stay relevant. It doesn’t require you to do or write a lot.
Simply informing others that you’ve had a work anniversary or started a new job and congratulating those in you network when they do the same will do the trick. Endorse the skills of 10 of your connections or send some relevant updates.

4. Create - don’t wait for opportunities: More than 75% of LinkedIn users are using the platform to research people and companies. Use the advanced search function to learn more about people you’d like to know and companies you’d like to work for. Then Google and follow the ones you’re really interested in via Facebook, the web, and other social media sites. Select one person in your field who you admire and want to get to know. Review her/his LinkedIn page and other information found on the Internet and draft a personalized email complimenting them for their recent accomplishments requesting to meet him or her for coffee or a 20-minute call to ask them for some career advice.

5. Use your words: Draft and share an article, blog post, press release or anything that you’ve recently written. Write and share a nicely written piece on a timely topic in your field; include your LinkedIn photo so others tie it into your LinkedIn profile.

6. Follow the leader: Follow companies and engage with or join group(s) related to your field/desired field. More than half of all companies share more “individualized” content on their LinkedIn site, including text and video product/service information. Approximately 60% of companies view who is following their company pages to identify possible job candidates; and more than half of all company LinkedIn pages share updates with followers.
In addition, about two thirds of LinkedIn “power users” belong to groups like their college alma mater, previous employers, associations and groups within their industry. These groups can offer invaluable information such as job leads and invite-only networking sessions.
Today pick one company to follow and one group to join.

7. Engage with post(s): Whether it’s an influencer or a junior person who works in the same or similar field, take time to comment on their posts that are relevant to your field or potential connections.
Offer substantive, insightful feedback (i.e., more than “nice post”) in order to get your name “out there in the digital world” and to increase the likelihood that someone will view your profile as a result of reading your comment.

LinkedIn is more than a job board where you post your resume. It is a powerful interactive tool that successful professionals use to: facilitate daily direct messaging, generate more than 40% of a prospective employees’ job leads; and connect tens of thousands former employees every day. This week spend 7-10 minutes a day or (if this is something you really need to improve) dedicate 90 minutes during the week working on one or more of LOPP activity challenges.

October 1, 2016 The Living on Purpose Career Readiness Challenge . . . 30 Days of Activities, 4 Surprising Posts, 1 Great Sidebar Post on Creating (and not waiting) for Opportunities and 1 Compelling Conversation.

It’s October 1, summer’s over and it’s back to your daily grind. You have exactly 93 days to either start off 2017 with a new job that you love or head into the New Year doing the same old thing. What will you choose? We hope that you are ready, willing and able to make a change and will join us on October 5 when we’ll launch the first Living On Purpose Project 30-Day Career Readiness Challenge. Whether you are looking to change industries, move up in your current career/position; or are planning to switch things up in the near future - this monthly event will help you break the cycle and take concrete steps towards your dream job.

Each week will focus on non-traditional ways to advance your level of career readiness, as well as daily activities that you can do (most in 7 minutes or less) to help practice and master a core key skill. Here’s a sneak peek of what we have planned:

October 5: Seven Surprising Ways to Get LinkedIn to Work for You
Two people join LinkedIn every second. Here are seven surprising ways that people are using LinkedIn as an interactive tool to find job leads, get the attention of recruiters and hiring managers and effectively promote themselves professionally.

October 12: Compelling Conversation with Rachel Piatczyc
Who says that you have to pick just one job or career that you love? This month we’re talking to Rachel Piatczyc who shares her secrets to creating a multi-faceted career. We’re also offering a sidebar post on October 16 about three ways to create and not wait for opportunities.

October 19: Seven Things You Never Imagined Could Help Get You Hired in a Hurry
Tired of sending your resume out with no response? Are you finding that all the traditional ways to find a new job are not working? We’re spilling the tea on seven surprising things that can help you land a job quickly.

October 26: Seven Ways Mind/Body Balance Can Help You Succeed (And Why It’s Not B.S!)
You’re young and healthy and might never believe that stress can be slowing you down and blocking you from the job of your dreams. Mind/Body Balance isn’t hippie, new age stuff, but a proven method to help you make a successful professional transition and sustain an effective long-term life and career.

September 28, 2016 Seven Things to Think About When It Comes to . . . Finding Success Because of Your Mindset and Not Just Your Abilities

World-renowned Stanford University psychologist Carol Dweck has spent decades studying why it’s not just our abilities and talents that bring us success but whether we approach things with a “fixed” or “growth” mindset. Here are some key takeaways from her amazing book, Mindset, and seven questions to determine which mindset you currently have and ways to make changes to accomplish true career success.

1. What is your mindset on life?: Dweck says how you answer the following four true or false statements will tell you whether you have a growth or fixed mindset: (1) You are a certain kind of person, and there is not much that can be done to really change that; (2) No matter what kind of person you are, you can always change substantially; (3) You can do things differently, but the important parts of who you are can’t really be changed; and (4) You can always change basic things about the kind of person you are. Answering “true” to statements 1 and 3 are the fixed-mindset questions and questions 2 and 4 reflect a growth mindset.

2. Are you more concerned with how you’ll be judged or are you concerned with improving? The above questions relate to your personality mindset and reveal qualities dependability, cooperativeness, caring or social skills. Your goal in life should be about learning (a growth personality mindset) and not about caring how others assess your ability or trying to get everything “right” on the first or tenth try (a fixed personality mindset).

3. Do you want to change your mindset?: As a child, someone may have praised your intelligence, looks or ability. However, words alone don’t foster our self-esteem and enable us to accomplish things. In fact, being praised solely for your outcome can jeopardize your success. Redefine success to include the effort and process, and not just the end result. Remember you can be smart and talented but you need a growth mindset to cultivate the coping skills required for life.

4. Do you have the CEO disease? Dweck gives a great example in her book of the downside of a fixed mindset when it comes to business and your professional life. She talks about former Chrysler CEO Lee Iacocca who, after a period of initial success, kept bringing out the same car models again and again with only minor tweaks. Meanwhile Japanese companies were redefining how cars should look and run – and eventually led the market. Where in your professional life are refusing to welcome a challenge and finding new ways to approach things? Learn ways to embrace your shortcomings and thrive, not cower, after setbacks and “failure.”

5. Do you only like doing things that you know you’ll do well? If you are living your life thinking I have mastered “X” and therefore don’t need to continue learning more about it – STOP THAT TODAY.
The bigger the challenge the more we learn to “stretch” ourselves, something many great athletes have shown us from their example. Many sports greats often trained with people who were older, bigger, better and even more talented. It was challenging themselves in this way that helped them become a phenom.

6. Do you feel “smart” when you are “flawless” or when you are “learning?” I love the feeling of having that “aha” moment when I realize why that “thing” that I did wasn’t working – because now I know how to “fix it.” Do you feel the same way? Start embracing the power of the process of things and not just the energy of doing things “perfectly.” Perfection doesn’t invite progress and effortless success doesn’t teach us anything. Remember, change and progress is essential to success in our work and careers.

7. What are you trying to prove and who are you trying to prove it to? People with a fixed mindset opt for success over growth. Doing so begs the question, what are they really trying to prove? If you are living with a fixed mindset stop trying to prove that you are intelligent, unique or special – you are. Imperfections are not shameful it’s what makes us great.

“Failure is an action NOT an identity.” Everything you try will work out. Your inability to do something perfectly or instantly does not define who you are but rather opens the potential of who you can become. Things are not “either or” – you can have great ability but still need to embrace putting forth effort. Even if you are a genius be willing, as Dweck says, to “upgrade your genius.” This week think about whether you have a fixed or growth mindset. If it’s fixed, ask yourself – “At the end of your career do you want to look back and see that you only did those things in life that you knew you could succeed in – or do you want to say that you explored, tried to improve and enjoyed the journey and not just the destination?”

September 21, 2016 Seven Things to Think About When It Comes to . . . Making Professional Friends.

When we are young we have many opportunities to meet and make friends. Going to school, joining a sports team or simply hanging out at the playground – offers us chances to connect with new people. Yet the older we get the harder it seems to make new friends. Whatever age you may be, we all need work friends to support us and help us navigate our careers. In fact, the older we get the more we need to surround ourselves with a strong support network. Here are seven ways to cultivate those relationships and reasons why we need them.

1. A Work BFF: Your best friend shares your interests and is that one person you can confide in no matter what. However, if your “bestie” works in a different field or industry they may not always be the ideal person to turn to when it comes to navigating your career. Take time to cultivate a close relationship with a peer at your workplace. It’s not just a good idea but a necessary asset to succeed at work. Having a work BFF offers a trusted confidant who understands exactly what challenges you may face, as well as someone who can help you best address and overcome them.

2. An Industry Insider: No matter what industry you work in, it’s really important to befriend someone at a different company who knows a lot of people in your field. Industry insiders offer a unique perspective and can be invaluable when it comes to finding and exploring new professional opportunities.

3. The Worker-Bee: Everyone needs people in “high” places to help them succeed, but we also need work friendships with people inside our organization who help us get things done. Pick up a coffee for the receptionist, treat the group admin to lunch, write a personal thank you note to the intern, or buy a $5 Starbucks for the “guys” in the mail room. Continue to cultivate these friendships over time. Years ago I worked with an admin who is now a senior vice president and executive producer at a major TV network! These friends will not only help ensure your package makes the last Fed-Ex pick up, but can also be unexpectedly invaluable sources of information. Often people treat the worker-bees as “invisible” and unknowingly spill the “tea” (i.e. company gossip) in front of them. The bottom line is you should treat everyone you encounter with respect, especially people who are often ignored and forgotten.

4. The Dear Abby: Years ago people wrote to a woman named Ann Landers who had a syndicated newspaper column called Dear Abby when they needed advice on how to deal with a certain problems and situations. Today, you need a professional friend who you can turn to for advice and ideas on how to deal with difficult people, places and things. Find a person who you admire and respect who you can turn to when you face work challenges.

5. A Kindred Spirit: Take advantage of the company office party or a committee project to meet colleagues who work in other departments or divisions. Follow up with people who you “click” with by sending a “nice to meet you email” or ask them out for lunch or coffee. Whether you share a similar sense of humor or style, create a professional friendship with like-minded co-workers in other areas of the company, especially those areas you might want to work in one day.

6. The Common Interest: Where you live, how you dress or where you went to college has nothing to do with who you are personally or professionally but using this information may be a great way to make new friends at work. If you notice a co-worker in the elevator holding a tote bag from your college alma mater or that you recognize from the neighborhood, reach out and introduce yourself. Shared interests can be a great foundation for professional friendships.

7. The Gatekeeper: Every office has a senior leader but every workplace has a gatekeeper who provides access to this top boss. Make an effort to “play nice” with the gatekeeper as he or she has the boss’ ear and the ability to make your life at work a smooth or rough process.

In life, we can all get by with a little help from our friends. The same is true when it comes to our careers. This week think about ways to enhance and expand your work and professional friendships. Remember, people are much more likely to recommend friends for promotions and new opportunities at other organizations - than people they don’t know.

September 14, 2016 Marketing professional and graduate student Darya Kulyk on dealing with jealousy and competition, finding a job as a new immigrant in NYC, standing out in any situation, and the “other” side of success.

Growing up in Ukraine Darya Kulyk’s experiences were different from many children living in the U.S., and her opportunities were very limited. She excelled in her classes and was involved in the school newspaper and student government. Darya succeeded at almost everything she did but she soon discovered that having diverse talents actually made it more difficult, and not easier, to realize her true passions and ultimate career interest.

Doing many things well also taught her an important lesson about life at a young age. Darya says that she always noticed the way that others, mostly girls, reacted to her success. Being a top finalist for almost everything caused many people to act jealous towards her. And, while some kids in her position might have shied away from the spotlight to fit in or be liked, Darya just dealt with it. She kept doing the things she liked and stayed involved in the things she did well. In realizing, and more importantly in accepting, that everyone is not going to “like you,” Darya has learned to navigate life doing what she likes regardless of how others feel about it.

Can you share one specific risk that you took that didn’t go as planned, but you don’t regret?

I look at everything as an opportunity, so I don’t really regret anything that I’ve done. However, looking back I wonder how a couple of things would have worked out if had I done them differently. For example, after high school, I immediately started working for a couple of years to find out what I wanted to do. Later, when I went to college I felt like I knew everything or at least enough to make my own decisions, and so I didn’t consult with anybody about anything I was doing. In hindsight, I think now how I could have used the five years in college more efficiently if I had asked others for advice and suggestions.

Other times, I think what might have happened had I pursued science or math, instead of a liberal arts degree. When I applied to graduate schools, I thought about these things thinking that perhaps if I had a more substantial background and a different undergraduate degree; it would have been more useful. But I don’t regret studying media and communications. Working in marketing, I’ve found it very useful and important to have a lot of different skill sets. At the end of the day, I pursued what I liked – a little bit of everything. So instead of thinking about whatever “might have been,” I think that things worked out the way they were supposed to and I guess that’s what really matters.

Coming from Ukraine to the U.S. you had to create opportunities. How did you figure out what steps to take? And, what’s your advice to someone who is in a similar position?

When I came to New York, I didn’t even have a resume. One day I sat down and wrote out everything I knew how to do.

My goal was to send out 50 resumes a day, so that’s what I did. I used Craigslist like crazy. I sent my resume anywhere and everywhere, even newspaper ads, which matched positions I was looking for, even if it was just a tiny bit.

Being an immigrant doesn’t really give you a lot of time to “weigh your options” because like everyone else you have to make a living. I knew I did not want to wait tables so I started looking into office assistant positions and luckily I got one as soon as I came here after high school. It was a small office but it gave me a lot of experience with the Internet, e-commerce, working on business proposals and much more.

As a young professional woman and wife, how do you navigate focusing your attention on yourself and your career?

My husband recently decided to make a 180 in his career and go into medicine. He is going to be an anesthesia nurse. The past two years, he has been in a very rigorous program that been challenging for both of us.

I came to a point in my life when I realized that I wasn’t happy. Something was bothering me. I was becoming an accessory to what his [my husband’s] goals were. I asked myself, “If I were alone right now, what would I want to do in my life?” Right away the answer came, “to go back to school.” So I talked to my husband and realized this could be the perfect time to do it. I thought hey, we can even study together. So applied and (got accepted to) Baruch’s MS program.

If you’re not happy or something is not going the way that you would like, do something about it now. Don’t wait for better or perfect conditions, they may never come.

Do you have any tips to help anyone consistently stand out in professional situations?

Organization and attention to detail is key and extremely important. In any professional environment, which includes school, do your research. Research your boss, a professor, or the field you’re studying or want to work in. It will help you feel more comfortable in your new environment. Doing anything new is always uncomfortable because it’s unfamiliar. Having prior knowledge and feeling prepared is critical when trying something new and different.

At work, I think I stand out by being organized and prepared. This includes the little things like following up after a conversation, or reviewing emails and making notes of things I’ll look into further. It’s looking at everything because, more than likely, it’s the one little detail that can be or make a very important difference.

Do you consider yourself a competitive person? If so, how does that affect your life and career choices?

I am competitive and like competition. However, I don’t like losing [laughter]. Nobody does, but losing is part of playing any “game.” I’m learning that the more serious the “competition,” the higher the chance you may actually lose. But that’s okay, because sometimes the higher the risk – the higher the reward.

But you have to be in the game, participate and just try. While you may not win the entire match, you’ll be more prepared than you were before you tried, and you’ll have gotten something out of it because you did something you like.

In high school, I worked hard but my academic life and many other things came very easy to me. Later in life, however, I didn’t always feel “prepared” or that things came as easily as I juggled many challenges in other areas of my life and career.

Do you think you can be competitive and also supportive of your professional peers/colleagues?

Absolutely. Never be afraid to compliment someone and to tell them how good they are, even for the tiniest little thing. It may not be important to you but it can be huge to another person. Everyone needs to be acknowledged for something good. It may sound overly simplistic but it’s also smart to be kind and friendly to people.

What is the biggest lesson learned from someone’s unconventional or quiet wisdom?

Everyday I watched a former colleague demonstrate that you can be knowledgeable, but you shouldn’t throw your advice at people if they didn’t ask for it.

You might believe or confidently know more than someone else, but if they didn’t ask for advice or suggestions – don’t just give it to them. If somebody asks you for help then certainly go all out. But if not, keep your mouth shut.

About Darya Kulyk: Darya Kulyk works full time as an account manager at Rewards Network. She is also a full-time graduate student pursuing her MS degree in Marketing Analytics at the Zicklin School of Business of Baruch College. Darya has created a successful career working for several small to medium size businesses in NYC holding various administrative and managerial positions. She is “Living on Purpose” by enjoying life’s challenges and embracing each one as an opportunity to learn. Darya has a BA in Media Studies and minor in Economics from Hunter College. Follow Darya on LinkedIn at Darya Kulyk. # # #

September 7, 2016 Seven Things to Think About When It Comes to . . . Questions to Ask Yourself to Help You Discover your Purpose.

We all have a purpose. Yet only less than 20% of us discover it and live it. Now that Summer has ended and you’re getting back to your grind and routine, here are seven simple questions that might offer the “aha!” moment you’ve been looking for to find or create your next career move.

1. What types of relationships drive you? A good place to start when thinking about what you were born to do begins not at looking at yourself, but at who or what you like working with. Are you someone who is motivated by groups or do you like working alone? Are you energized by working with kids or animals or a place where you don’t have to interact with anyone at all? Clarity regarding who you like working with and where you thrive can help you uncover your purpose.

2. When do you feel in your element and get that feeling that this is what I was born to do? There some things that come to us so naturally it’s like second nature. For natural leaders, no one ever had to tell them how to motivate and lead people they just knew. What have you always done naturally? Are you most comfortable when you cheer others on or are when you are given a problem to fix?

3. Where does your satisfaction and success intersect? There are things we like doing and then there are areas where we excel. For most people our “purpose” relates to where these two arenas meet. You may love doing something, but it may be something that you don’t do well. Do what you love and find ways to practice and increase your level of skill. Sometimes that extra focus and practice makes all the difference. For example, Michael Jordan was cut from the Junior Varsity basketball team, but practice and dedication helped him became one the best players of all time. However, there are things that, despite our dedication, are simply not something thing that we excel at doing. If that’s the case, we then should explore other pursuits. Remember that even Michael Jordan never became a phenom at baseball.

4. What motivates you to get out of bed? Some people are driven by the chance to help others while other individuals are motivated by solving problems? Are you drawn to learning new things or are you inspired by developing expertise in one area? Know what motivates you, and why?

5. What are your talents that you are willing to invest in? Where do you spend your time and money? Chances are the things you choose to invest your financial and other resources doing is something that you are really passionate about.

6. What’s your reoccurring topic of conversation? We all are passionate about certain causes and ideas, what are yours? I am deeply dedicated to empowering others to explore and live their passions and purpose. I also strongly believe in all people, especially women, becoming financially educated and independent.

And, I believe that all children need to be encouraged and supported to become the people who they were born to be. No matter where I am and who I meet, my conversations (even with strangers) tend to focus on one of these topics.

7. What do you do when you don’t know what to do? When you feel stuck, in a rut, or confused about which path to take, what is your “go to” move? I often turn to yoga, prayer and meditation, find ways to connect with nature, and talk to friends and family about my current feelings. Knowing the positive people and things that you turn to for answers can be a huge step in starting the process of change.

Making a career change begins with asking yourself big questions. This week, pick just one of these seven questions to help you gain clarity about not just what you love, but why you love it. Questions can empower you to create a new way of thinking, which in turn can help change what you do and perhaps even reveal that “thing” that you were born to do.

August 31, 2016 Seven Things to Think About When It Comes to . . . Creating a Fulfilled and Purpose-Filled Life

One of my favorite people is Anna Quindlen, author of the bestselling novels Object Lessons, One True Thing, and Black and Blue. Her New York Times column “Public and Private” won a Pulitzer Prize in 1992, she has also penned a number of other great reads. Although most of Anna’s books are novels, she wrote an amazing non-fiction book called A Short Guide to a Happy Life (Random House). Taking inspiration from some of the many great ideas and themes in this tiny powerhouse, here are seven simple steps to explore and discover purpose.

1. Be Present:

Stop your words and body from moving and be still and present for at least 10 minutes a day. Turn off all devices and try your best to return your mind to “nothingness” when it wanders. Having this time to re-charge is essential to moving to where you want to be in the future.

2. Have different kinds of new and old “fun:”

Carnival ride-fun, concert-fun, watching a baby sleep-fun, some trying new things-fun, and going new places-fun.

Not all parts of life are fun, however, we can find an element of fun in anything that we do. Fun helps us grow and connect with who we are and more importantly who we can become.

3. Think of and embrace your worst mistake:

Claim one lesson you learned from your biggest mistake, and think about what it taught yourself and others. When you claim your mistakes it frees you from them and eliminates the fear of someone else hanging it over your head. Mistakes (that we learn from) give us wisdom and make us who we are, perhaps even more than our successes. Create a concise story about your mistake and the lesson you learned from it to share with others ensure that their path will be easier to navigate.

4. Be a good (Fill-in-the-blank):

Don’t just choose generic words to fill in this blank like friend/daughter/son/mother/father instead use words or phrases that define how your actions and presence impact others. For example, I want to be a good “motivator” who lifts people up when they are feeling down and inspires others to make change. Or I want people to feel supported and empowered in my presence.

5. Remind yourself that nothing is promised:

We often put off making career changes because we assume that we’ll always have time to do so. The truth is, nothing is guaranteed. Make sure that the last words you speak to your family, loved ones and even colleagues are life-lasting. Take time to do something each week that works toward bringing you happiness. No matter how young you are live life knowing that your last work or deed could be your last.

6. Create a life that both connects you with others and allows you to have alone time:

Spend time teaching others and invest time alone learning about yourself. Find ways to “sign up” and “sit in the back seat” and learn what inspires you and what you do well.

7. Help others by sharing your craft, experiences and everything you know:

Your job at any age or stage is to help another person. We are all “teachers” and all “students.” There are always people who admire who you are and what you do no matter where you are in life. Through the process of sharing, you grow and learn not just about the experience you share, but about yourself.

We all experience success in our personal lives and in our careers. However, it’s often hard to sustain success in both parts of our life simultaneously. This week, try some of these suggested tips or pick up a copy of an Anna Quindlen’s book from a library or book store and start creating your own personal guide to a happy life.