Seven Ways to Create a Career Breakthrough

No matter where we are in our lives and/or careers, sometimes we just feel stuck. Here are seven (7) things that you can do to shake up your professional life in a good way.

1.    The best creators of products are users of those products/services: If you want to create a new line of skin care products, it’s best to make sure you shop for and use a wide variety of skin care products. Whatever you are trying to do for others, first make sure you experience and can speak to your needs as a consumer of that product and/or service.

2.    You have to fake it until you make it: I know I say this often, but that’s because it bears repeating. Sometimes what we really need to attract new people and opportunities is a new attitude and confidence that makes us seem more talented and successful than we really are.

3.    Don’t tell others what you are doing until you’ve done it: There certainly are advantages of telling people about your new business or venture, but it might be best when starting something new to share the news with others after you are successfully up and running.

4.    Sign up to volunteer for an internal project or external organization: Volunteering can be a quick and effective way to expand your professional network and opportunities. There is also the added benefit of doing something that benefit others and/or working on a new project that expands your visibility in your organization.

5.    Consider making a career shift: The biggest change you may need to make may be embracing the idea that you want/need to change careers. Open your mind to the idea of pursuing a new industry, field or career.

6.    Start or advance your side hustle: If you want to break out of your career rut, start by creating or working on your existing side hustle. Sometimes the new opportunity we are looking for is the opportunity we must create.

7.    Take a class focused on your passion or your career interest: There are lots of free and low-cost courses and programs. Register for an online or IRL (in real life) course to give yourself something to look forward to and something that can help you get closer to the job, career or professional lifestyle you really desire.

We all fall into ruts and slumps both in our careers and job search efforts. This week try these and other ways to shake up your predictable routine and move you closer to your dream job/career.

What Madonna Can Teach You About Remaining Relevant and Career Reinvention!

 This week we are taking a musical perspective and sharing seven things that Madonna (yes, Madonna) can teach you about staying relevant and in demand in your field.

1.    We are living in a material world and I’m a material girl. Madonna and her team understand current pop culture. Do you? She grew to stardom in the 80s, a decade and generation of materialism and excessive spending. She sang about wanting, doing and having new and nice stuff. Can’t be more relatable than that. Good, bad or indifferent, she became an iconic product/brand because she sang about something we all want - aspirations to want and have better.

2.    Communicates a simple message that everyone understands: Let’s face it, Madonna’s lyrics are not the most profound in the industry. And, that’s the point. Using simple, memorable and relatable words - allows you to connect with a wide and global audience. Remember it’s far easier to sing a song in another language if it’s short and sweet.

3.    Have multiple looks and skill sets: Madonna is known not just as a singer, but also a performer, actress, style/trend setter.

4.    Gives us shock and awe: Whether you’re a person, product or brand, every now and then, you should give your prospects/consumers/audience something that is different and unexpected. Sometimes that translates into making bold statements and leaving others with an unforgettable image of who you are/what you offer.

5.    Partner and network with popular people to make yourself even more relevant. Madonna socialized, married, dated and did business with many other famous people. She shows that when teaming with famous “brands” can help increase your own brand popularity and demand. Find ways to leverage who you have worked with to create and find new opportunities. 

6.    Expect the unexpected: It’s one thing to shock and surprise others occasionally, it’s quite another to constantly keep people engaged in what you do and say. Find ways to communicate and promote yourself, your product or your brand in non-traditional and non-conventional ways. Send an email with an advertising-type headline, reach out to someone you want to for or do business with including an customized, graphic designed infographic on why you are the ideal person or product.

7.    Have a distinctive, professional and direct business style. Although Madonna was young when she started her career in 1981, she has a shrewd mind and very savvy in her approach to her business. Part of her success comes from knowing how to promote her value and ensuring on deals and terms that are favorable to her.   

Successful people like Madonna often leave a blue print/clear path to follow to help create and cultivate success. This week pick one of these tips to jumpstart your career reinvention. Find new ways to stay relevant and in demand.

There’s nothing to it – just strike a pose – and V-O-U-G-E

Seven Things That You Should Say to Vastly Improve Your Success at Work

Although your mother may have told you that “it’s not what you say, but how you say it,” the truth is both how you communicate and what you say can have a HUGE impact on your professional life. Here are seven (7) small communication changes that can do BIG things for your professional success.

1.    Use “we” instead of “I”: Whenever possible try to replace the word I with we at work. Doing so, can help do wonders to boost morale and gain support from your staff, colleagues, and co-workers. When people feel connected to the team and understand the important role they play in working towards achieving goals and objectives, they work harder at their jobs.

2.    Let others know that you remember the details of their personal life: Whether it’s remembering the name of your boss’ new puppy or your colleague’s partner, taking time to note and mention a personal “fact” or detail about your clients and co-workers can do wonders for your professional relationships. 

3.    Address people you know by first name and people you just meet by their last: Find ways to address others by name, even if you’re having a one-on-one meeting. Simply saying, “Good Morning, Patrice” or “Ms. Anderson” versus just “Good Morning” can greatly improve your coworker’s mood and make them feel more connected to you.

4.    Refer to people as ma’am or sir: When you are not referring to or calling people by their first and/or last name, you should address them as “ma’am” or “sir.” This is also a great tip for addressing people in the retail or customer service industry. You’ll soon find that calling even the 16-year-old working at a fast food restaurant “sir” may make him and everyone feel more respected and appreciated.

5.    Give shout outs and kudos when they are due (and even when they aren’t): Everyone likes to hear that they have done a good job. Find ways to recognize and congratulate others, especially those who work for and/or with you. Publicly recognizing others can do wonders in expanding your professional network, as people like to help people who they like.

6.    Send your boss or client a handwritten note of thanks at least once a year: Even though most people don’t send or receive thank you notes, taking a few minutes out of your schedule to draft a note of thanks can have a huge impact on your professional relationships. Simply thanking your supervisor for all that they do and letting them know how much you appreciate working with them can offer a huge boost in someone’s opinion of you.

7.    Keep your mouth and your comments “clean”:  Sometimes we all use profanity to express our emotions or emphasize a point. However, when it comes to communicating with others in your professional life – keep it clean.  Make sure that your feedback about others is always said in the best possible light. Some people can really be turned off from excessive profanity or constant negative comments about others.

This week remember that your words matter, how you express things does matter and can make a huge difference as you strive for professional success. Think about and try these and other communication tips to help position yourself in the best professional light.

Seven Secrets to a Career Breakthrough

No matter where we are in our life and/or career, sometimes we just feel stuck. Here are seven (7) things that you can do to shake up your professional life in a good way.

1.    The best creators of products are users of those products/services: If you want to create a new line of skin care products, it’s best to make sure you shop for and use a wide variety of skin care products. Whatever you are trying to do for others, first make sure you experience and can speak to your needs as a consumer of that product and/or service.

2.    You have to fake it until you make it: I know I say this often, but that’s because it bears repeating. Sometimes what we really need to attract new people and opportunities is a new attitude and confidence that makes us seem more talented and successful than we really are.

3.    Don’t tell others what you are doing until you’ve done it: There certainly are advantages of telling people about your new business or venture, but it might be best when starting something new to share the news with others after you are successfully up and running.

4.    Sign up to volunteer for an internal project or external organization: Volunteering can be a quick and effective way to expand your professional network and opportunities. There is also the added benefit of doing something that benefit others and/or working on a new project that expands your visibility in your organization.

5.    Consider making a career shift: The biggest change you may need to make may be embracing the idea that you want/need to change careers. Open your mind to the idea of pursuing a new industry, field or career.

6.    Start or advance your side hustle: If you want to break out of your career rut, start by creating or working on your existing side hustle. Sometimes the new opportunity we are looking for is the opportunity we must create.

7.    Take a class focused on your passion or your career interest: There are lots of free and low-cost courses and programs. Register for an online or IRL (in real life) course to give yourself something to look forward to and something that can help you get closer to the job, career or professional lifestyle you really desire.

We all fall into ruts and slumps both in our careers and job search efforts. This week try these and other ways to shake up your predictable routine and move you closer to your dream job/career.

Want to Be in The Room Where It Happens? Network Like Crazy

Navigating how to network is not always easy, even before a global pandemic. Sometimes people mean well but end up making rookie mistakes like asking for BIG favors via email (vs. by phone or in-person). When it comes to networking, we have three simple but effective tips. Be bold in your efforts and approach. Be respectful of your contact’s time. And, be strategic in your efforts. This week we’re heading to social media to inspire you to take your networking to the next level.  

The Real Reasons People Get Hired and Advance in Their Career

 This week we’re taking an honest look at how and why some people achieve professional success and others do not.  Here are seven real reasons why people get hired and advance in their careers.

1.    You know the right people: No matter your field, professional success comes down to who you know. Some people will always be given the intros, invitations and interviews because they were connected to the right person.

2.    You benefit from nepotism: It’s one thing to know the right people, it’s quite another to know someone in a position of power or who can give you an opportunity and/or a job. Many people get ahead because of their family and business connections. Is it fair? Of course not! But it’s a reality. Nepotism gives many people the opportunity to be successful. Did you know that A Star is Born co-star and director, Bradley Cooper, hired his own dog Charlie to play his on-screen pet? Charlie now has a new career thanks to his famous “dad” - proving that nepotism is alive and well even for canines.

3.    You know a lot of people: Whether it’s in or outside of your field, movers and shakers know other successful people. Anyone can use this to their advantage by cultivating relationships with business and industry contacts. For example – if you know a key decision-maker in the hospitality industry and have a friend who wants to be a manager at a London based hotel – make the connection. You now have a professional favor that is owed to you; i.e. your friend should now do all they can to introduce you to a similar person in your specific field. If you want to find new employment opportunities, you must expand your professional and social networks. Your goal is to ask everyone if they know anyone who works in the same industry.

4.    You have a professional mentor or industry leader: Early on and when changing career fields, you don’t often know what you “don’t know.” This is why a professional mentor is essential to help you make effective decisions and successfully navigate situations. Even if it’s not someone in your same field – seek advice and counsel from an experienced person who you know and trust. Ask your former supervisor, client, professor, head hunter or life/career coach for suggestions to find and create new opportunities.

5.    You applied to twice as many jobs as other candidates: Finding a new job or venturing out in a new career is a numbers game. You have to apply to nearly double the opportunities. For example, if you have been applying to 3 jobs/opportunities a week, however, barely get callbacks for phone screenings or interviews – increase your odds. Start applying to 6 or even 10 jobs every week and see how your responses increase too.

6.    You’re young, in shape and/or attractive: I know that this sounds ageist, sexist and shallow, because it is. However, if you are lucky enough to fit into one of these categories, use it to your advantage. There is nothing wrong with a recent college grad mentioning to a potential employer that they are just as experienced but require only half of the salary as a more seasoned candidate.

7.    You are prepared: Even the most privileged professionals need to be ready and able to do the job at hand, including having a positive attitude. Make sure your resume and professional bio are updated and ready to send to others. Ensure that you have a game plan to be able to answer the door when opportunity knocks.

This week, take a reality check when it comes to the things you can control to help create your business and professional success. If you don’t have all or even several of these things – don’t worry. Next week we’ll share seven (7) simple things that everyone can do to help increase the likelihood that you will be more effective in your career advancement and readiness.

Ask Patrice – How Do You Deal with Work Bullies?

A year ago, I started working at a new small company. There is one co-worker who goes out of her way to make me feel excluded and treats me very disrespectfully in front of others. This negativity is really taking its toll on me and I am seriously thinking about taking another job because of the situation. How do I address this issue while positioning myself as someone who can handle things and people?

The truth is, there are 101 reasons why she may not like you. Perhaps she was overlooked for your position, or feels threatened by you or simply doesn’t like having to change her routine.

Unfortunately, bullying doesn’t stop in 5th grade. There are many adult bullies, tormentors and unhappy people who the rest of us have to work with. Though she may not like you, you must demand that she respect you. Here are the next three (3) things that you should do to address this issue.

1.    Try to schedule one-on-one time to talk to her about your working relationship: Take ten minutes to clearly and firmly put your cards on the table and tell her that she is treating and speaking to you in a way that doesn’t make you feel respected. Chances are she is fully aware of her actions, but this will give you the opportunity to put her on notice that you don’t like how she treats you and that it needs to stop.

2.    Document her actions: Keep a daily log or email of exactly what she says and does. Record the dates and times. Depending on how bad the treatment is, you may need to speak to your immediate supervisor to intervene. Share your FACTS (not emotions) about what happened, when and where. If your supervisor fails to act – or the situation remains the same – you need to consider how much you really want to stay at this job/organization.

3.    Deal with it head on: If your job is a place you like and want to stay working at, you have two choices to deal with this. 1) Ignore her immaturity and insecurities, put your head down and do your work. OR 2) Escalate the situation by taking the issue to HR or to the senior client/boss.

This week, take 30 minutes to develop a new way of working/dealing with a not-so-nice co-worker, even if that means to simply ignore them and not let their antics bother you anymore. Then try to find ways to minimize the amount of time you have to work together.

Improve Your Sleep Hygiene Now That Summer Has Ended

 Labor Day is here and Summer is officially over. This Fall is actually the perfect time to focus on your sleeping habits and make some small but important changes to your sleep health. Believe it or not – there is a correlation on how much sleep you get and how many goals you successfully accomplish. Here are seven (7) ways to refocus your sleep health and in turn give a surprise boost to your life, your energy and your motivation.

1.   After you get home, change into your PJs or your comfy clothes: The mere act of taking off your “work” clothes and putting on new ones sends a signal to your brain to relax and unwind. Ancient cultures and civilizations have long used robes for their comfort, convenience and ease of wear. Studies show that it is an ideal way to start your unwinding process before bedtime.

2.   Change your sheets at least once a week: If you can’t remember the last time you changed your sheets, you may be among the 40% of people who have the bad habit of changing their sheets monthly. Microbiologist Laura Bowater recommends washing your bed sheets every seven days (or at least every two weeks). Doing so will eliminate your exposure to bacteria, dust mites and other allergens that can make you sick. This week, remind yourself that fresh linens can actually make you feel more productive, happier and healthier.

3.   Only drink small sips of water if you’re thirsty in the middle of the night: It’s natural for many people to awaken thirsty in the middle of the night, however, it’s not a good habit to drink anything other than water. Avoiding sugar, caffeine and other stimulants will smooth your transition back to sleep.

4.   Wear socks to bed: According to the National Sleep Foundation, warming your feet before you go to bed helps give your brain a clear signal that it’s time to go to sleep. Wearing socks also increases blood flow and helps maintain core body temperature, which helps you sleep more soundly and comfortably.  

5.   Avoid blue light two hours before bedtime: The light that is emitted from your phone and laptop can inhibit your body’s natural melatonin production. Stop looking at your phone an hour or two before bed and let your natural melatonin lull you to sleep.

6.   Go to sleep and wake up at the same time: Doing so not only improves your sleep health but also helps create a positive circadian rhythm. A balanced circadian rhythm can contribute to better eating habits, digestion and even increase energy levels throughout the day.

7.   Explore homeopathic and traditional OTC remedies: If you have problems getting at least seven hours of sleep each night, look into a wide range of resources such as trying over the counter/homeopathic remedies, talking to your doctor or seeing a specialist. Doing so might be just the thing to cure your bad sleep habits and chronic sleep problems.

Sleep may be the wonder cure for what ails you – and in turn, may be holding you back from starting new projects and accomplishing key goals. This week try one of these sleep health success tips and you may soon have greater physical, athletic and cognitive performance in your life and career.

Avoid the Biggest Mistakes People Make When Asking for Help

What if I told you that your feeling like you’re in a rut or your inability to move to the next level has everything to do with HOW you are requesting help from others? Would you believe me? 

Asking for help can make a huge difference and can jumpstart a “stuck career.”

Here are seven of the biggest mistakes people make when asking others for help.

1.    Asking via email or text: The best and most effective way to ask for help is via the telephone or our new “socially-distant-in-person” option – Zoom.  People easily overlook emails and texts they don’t expect. So always make a follow-up call or text to alert others that your email or text is in their Inbox.

2.    Being too vague or general: Your request for help should be specific and concise. Instead of saying you want to pick their brain or get their thoughts on the career search process – ask “Can we meet for coffee to get your suggestions to improve my resume?”

3.    Sending requests to multiple people simultaneously: Mass emails may be ideal for companies trying to promote a new product or offer. However, mass emails are a bad idea when asking for help. People may assume that someone else has already responded and will move on to other things, leaving you without feedback from anyone. 

4.    Fearing someone will say no: The truth is that most people want to be helpful towards others. Yes, people can and might say “no” but who cares. It’s better than never asking someone who would have been happy to assist you.

5.    Thinking it’s a bother to others: Other people will let you know if they cannot help you or if your request is too time-consuming. Asking for help is like playing the Lotto, you can’t win if you don’t try.

6.    Being afraid to ask:  Are you afraid to ask someone for professional help or a favor because you are worried about what they will think or assume about you? Who cares! Everyone needs help from time to time. Speak up or risk losing out.  

7.    Forgetting it’s not what you say but how you say it: Whatever you ask, do it with a polite and respectful tone and a smile. Joking has its place, but it’s not best used when asking for serious advice.

This week try asking just one person for help or support – but do it “the right way.”

Finding a Career that “Completes” You

This week, we’re taking a “less is more” approach to career advice and highlighting great quotes and words of wisdom inspired by the movie “Jerry Maguire” starring Tom Cruise and Renee Zellweger.  As you push forward on your grind this week, remember your worth as you navigate new opportunities.  Create and strengthen relationships while you wait for the phone to ring.  Hold on strong to your belief that you can find that job or career that “completes” you.  Dream big and tell yourself daily that you want and deserve something better. 

Improving Your Sleep Hygiene to Find Professional Success

Fall is the perfect time to focus on your sleeping habits and make some small but important changes. When it comes to sleep, just one tiny adjustment can drastically improve your mindset and overall  “sleep health.” Believe it or not – there is a correlation between how much sleep you get and how many goals you successfully accomplish. Here are seven (7) ways to refocus your sleep health - and in turn give a surprise boost to your motivation and energy.

1.   After you get home, change into your PJs or your comfy clothes: The mere act of taking off your “work” clothes and putting on new ones sends a signal to your brain to relax and unwind. Ancient cultures and civilizations have long used robes for their comfort, convenience, and ease of wear. Studies show that it is an ideal way to start your unwinding process before bedtime.

2.   Change your sheets at least once a week: If you can’t remember the last time you changed your sheets, you may be among the 40% of people who have the bad habit of changing their sheets monthly. Microbiologist Laura Bowater recommends washing your bed sheets every seven days (or at least every two weeks). Doing so will eliminate your exposure to bacteria, dust mites, and other allergens that can make you sick. This week, remind yourself that fresh linens can actually make you feel more productive, happier, and healthier.

3.   Only drink small sips of water if you’re thirsty in the middle of the night: It’s natural for many people to awaken thirsty in the middle of the night, however, it’s not a good habit to drink anything other than water. Avoiding sugar, caffeine, and other stimulants will smooth your transition back to sleep.

4.   Wear socks to bed: According to the National Sleep Foundation, warming your feet before you go to bed helps give your brain a clear signal that it’s time to go to sleep. Wearing socks also increases blood flow and helps maintain core body temperature, which helps you sleep more soundly and comfortably.  

5.   Avoid blue light two hours before bedtime: The light that is emitted from your phone, I-Pad, and laptop can inhibit your body’s natural melatonin production. Stop looking at your devices, especially your phone, an hour or two before bed and let your natural melatonin lull you to sleep.

6.   Go to sleep at the same time every night: Doing so not only improves your sleep health but also helps create a positive circadian rhythm. A balanced circadian rhythm can contribute to better eating habits, digestion, and even increase energy levels throughout the day.

7.   Explore homeopathic and traditional OTC remedies: If you have problems getting at least seven hours of sleep each night, look into a range of resources such as over the counter and homeopathic remedies, talking to your doctor or seeing a specialist. Doing so might be just the thing to cure your bad sleep habits and chronic sleep problems.

Sleep may be the wonder cure for what ails you – and in turn may be holding you back from starting new projects and accomplishing key goals. This week try one of these sleep health success tips and you may soon experience greater physical, athletic, and cognitive performance.

Is Procrastination Calling Your Name?

As summer comes to an end, you might find yourself struggling with procrastination. You may want and need to take a temporary break. If so, take it.  Then make a concerted effort to resist the temptation to put off key plans and goals. This week we are heading to social media to share inspirational quotes and images to help you crush procrastination with hope and positive vibes.

Success Tips for Pursing and Changing Careers in the “New Normal”

Sometimes a change in mindset can help you get from where you are to where you want to be. Whether you want to pursue a new career interest or path, you must be flexible and confident about your professional skills and talents. Here are (7) seven tips to help you accentuate what you uniquely bring to the table and hopefully advance or even change careers.

Tip 1 –Ask anyone and everyone you know or have worked with to put their positive praise about you and your work in recommendation letters. Share them with potential employers and clients. 

Tip 2 – Get experience in the field you want to work; work for free for 6 months or more. For example, if you want to start or transition into marketing, find and create opportunities for you to work in that field. Be creative in figuring out ways to freelance for family and friends. 

Tip 3 – Think and believe “I can” and “I will.” Push away “I can’t” and “I won’t.” What we say to ourselves matters. 

Tip 4 – Use your age and/or experience with technology to your advantage. In today’s marketplace, Millennials (and even Gen Xers) are expected to be skilled and even experts in social media.

Tip 5 – Create a powerful professional LinkedIn page. Make sure you have an appropriate/professional photo and key information on your relevant skills and accomplishments. This will help to attract potential employers. 

Tip 6 – Act as if you already have the job that you want. Whether it’s the way you dress, carry yourself or even describe what you do, make sure you fake it till you make it.  

Tip 7 – Be aggressive, persistent, and creative in your networking and job search activities. Do things to stand out. For example, enclose a letter of recommendation with a job application.

Making Mondays Magical

There is something magical about starting over.  Think about it.  As the world is literally changing and shifting right before our eyes, we each have the chance to press the restart button each week. The button is called Monday. This week, embrace a new way of thinking about Mondays. See it as a opportunity to forgive yourself for past mistakes and to take new risks in the future.  Create a shift in how you see the week.  Make Monday “the new Friday” and use the day to enhance, not limit, your potential for positive life and for career changes.

Here’s to Breaking Routines, Giving It Your All and Creating the Change You Seek

When it comes to our jobs (or search for a new one) – we become creatures of habit living on autopilot. One day blends into the next and the next thing you know months go by of you doing the same old thing. It’s actually during these times, when you feel most comfortable, that you need to spice things up and do something different. Great opportunities often present themselves when we are giving our all and not going through the motions.

Here are seven (7) things to inspire you to break your routine and create the change that you seek.

1.   You can’t “phone in” wowing others in person: You are not the only one who falls into routines in your career. Give your co-workers a much need change in their routine by bringing in fruit and/or coffee to the next meeting. Even if it’s just three people, it will change the mood and make the energy much more positive.

2.   Change your clothes: Today most companies and people enjoy a relaxed business casual attire at work. However, dressing a bit more formal than you would normally not only makes others take you more seriously, it causes people to think about you and wonder what you are up to.

3.   Switch up the format: If you normally present reports in memo form, change things up by compiling the information/data in a PowerPoint or chart format. Let the change inspire you to do the same for other materials and things you work on.

4.   Give others a new template to follow: Giving colleagues and clients an easier way to do their job not only helps them – it makes you a rockstar co-worker.

Think of new ways to adjust the format of documents and projects that offer something easier and takes less time to complete.

5.   Start your day by doing at least one thing in a different way: If you normally drink coffee, try green tea; if you normally take the train, walk to work. Do at least one thing differently every day to keep yourself interested and inspired.

6.   Post or send a shout out: Switch up your day or week by thanking others for something they did for you. Reach out to an old boss or friend with an “I just wanted to take a minute to thank you for doing XYZ . . . I just want you to know that I will never forget it and want to thank you again.” Not only will it brighten someone’s day, it may help you network and reconnect with someone new.

7.   Tell others what you like about them: It may seem odd to see several suggestions asking you to focus on others. That is because doing so is often the easiest way to get out of a rut. Finding ways to tell others what is positive about themselves can actually help you do the same thing for yourself.

This week take an honest look at your work or job search routine. Try to find new ways to do more than “just show up” and instead create opportunities to give things your all.

Be Present

We cannot control what happens to us.  However, we always control how we choose to respond to life and career adversities and challenges. As we continue to navigate the unknown and create the “new normal,” remember that sometimes when one door closes, another opens – and the rewards can be great.  This week we’re heading to social to take a “less is more” approach to inspiring others to be present and happy in the moment.  We hope you will join us in choosing to be happy every day.

Learning How to Recognize What You Are Great At?

We are all great at something. What’s that thing that you do better than anyone else? If you don’t know what that is or even how to get started, you are in luck.  This Summer, the Living on Purpose Project is sharing information on how to help you stand out and succeed during the COVID-19 era. 

This week is about tooting your own horn and recognizing your greatness! Here are seven (7) things to consider when determining where you excel. 

1.   Are you passionate about a group of people or a cause? Something matters to all of us - what’s that cause that you believe in? I am committed to people who want to find a way to live life doing what they love. I believe we would all be much happier – and the world a better place – if more people could spend their time and talents on what interests them.

2.   Did you take a risk that paid off? More than a decade ago, I created a course called Turning Your Passion into Your Profession. I sent the proposal to the Learning Annex, a professional development organization in NYC. When they turned down my course, I took a chance and sent it to NYU, Columbia, AND Baruch College. Even though I had zero prior teaching experience, I took a risk. Lucky I did. NYU ran the course for more than 10 years and Baruch College hired me to teach 5 courses over 5 years. Teaching then became a new part of my career. Whether you bought a one-way ticket to NYC, quit your job to travel the world, or just found a new job and no longer have to sleep on a friend’s couch – celebrate your big and small risks that paid off.

3.   Are you really good at your job? What’s the one job or aspect of your professional life that you do better than others?

I am great at motivating people to want to work with and for me, in part, because I continually let others know how much I appreciate them and value what they do. I pride myself on being a great supervisor, mentor, and coworker. What do you pride yourself on?

4.   Are you a go-getter who goes after what you want? Sometimes life is simply about trying new things. Pat yourself on the back for trying new things and pushing yourself, and others, out of your comfort zone. Next time you decide you are going to “go for it” no matter what happens – celebrate your ability to venture into something new. 

5.    Are you a great friend or coworker? Perhaps you are that person at work who makes anything seem better. There are some people who make work “work” because they are pleasant, positive, and flexible people.

6.   Do people turn to you when they need encouragement or support? You may be a great cheerleader in your personal life. That person who motivates and inspires your family, friends, and others to work towards and achieve their goals.

7.   Are you organized and able to help others organize their life and/or goals? Some people are really good at creating organization, structure, and discipline for others. Maybe you are a kick ass personal trainer or life coach. Or perhaps you are simply that friend who helps others organize, declutter, and simplify their homes, businesses or lives.

This week, identify and remind yourself of at least one thing that you do very well. Pat yourself on the back and celebrate this one thing that makes you uniquely special and one-of-a-kind.

Being True to Yourself

As your job, home life, and favorite routines are being changed and turned upside down, remind yourself that change is just around the corner. Be aware that the “perfect next move” that you seek might be found when you are guided, forced, and pushed in new directions. Whatever path you choose or are forced to follow  – be yourself.  As you navigate the twists and turns of a changing job market and work on your career advancement – be yourself.  Be bold. Be passionate. But be yourself!  And, most importantly be true to your ideas and ideals.  Happy LBGTQ Pride Month to everyone who lives their truth each and every day. This week, follow us on social media as we shout out LBGTQ Pride, the universal power of love, and being true to you!

Facing Your Fears

This week, we are heading to social media to share our inspirational posts designed to help conquer your fears and stretch yourself outside your comfort zone. 

Bring Your Own Possible Solutions. Stop Asking Others.

The Living on Purpose Project has received lots of questions about what things people should be “doing now” to enhance their career readiness and advancement. Although the answer will vary from person to person, one thing that’s universal is everyone should focus on personal problem-solving.  

No one should expect others to fully solve their problems.  It’s far more effective to bring a problem to someone ALONG with a possible solution to solve it.  Here are seven common problems you may be experiencing in your job or career – along with seven possible solutions to solve them:

1.   If you feel you’ve been overlooked for a promotion, start the memo with a respectable, “I would like to formally request to be considered for promotion to XYZ position.  Following is a brief summary of my recent accomplishments.”

2.   If you’ve been looking for months or more than a year but haven’t found a job, create your own.  Freelance or work for free for friends and others. Find ways to create opportunities to do what you want to pursue.  

3.   If you feel left out because you aren’t invited to attend key meetings – ask your supervisor for 10 minutes of their time. Instead of venting to your boss about why you feel excluded, explain the reasons for why attending, having the information, and spending time with the staff would help you better support and work with the team.

4.   If an internal “client” or senior colleague isn’t responding to your emails, ask your boss if you can initiate a call to them OR if your boss/supervisor can put in a call on your behalf. 

 5.   If you feel stuck in your current job/position, figure out what advice you would give to someone in your exact position. Then give yourself that advice and think of three things that you can do to get unstuck.  More than likely, they will be the same things that someone would suggest to you.      

6.   If you want to transfer to another department at your current employer but are told that you don’t have the required experience, see if your company will pay for you to go back to school or enroll in a professional certificate program.  Even if you don’t get the opportunity to make a lateral move, you’ll have a new degree or skillset that you can use at another job/position.   

7.   If you start your own business but things are moving very slowly, find at least three things that you can do for the FIRST time or that you can do in a NEW or unique way. 

If you are currently facing a problem, instead of just asking your friends or family for advice - take 30 minutes to FIRST come up with your own possible solution and/or advice.  Often, we know the thing we need to do but we ask for advice from others for validation. Be known at home and at work as the person who always has a possible solution for every problem.