Following Your Passion
This is the last in the series regarding career changes. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, as of the end of September 2023 there are 9.6 million jobs available in the country. Each of those open positions represents an opportunity for someone. I am always amazed at how many people are looking for jobs or considering a career change. Lots of folks are seeking other opportunities.
This last week I spoke with my friend Virginia Laakman regarding her career change. She is a lawyer by trade but is in the process of changing careers. She is moving into a field that she is much more passionate about. If you are considering a change this is well worth the listen. Here are a couple of themes you will hear Virginia reference and some things you need to keep in mind if you are thinking about making that kind of a change.
1. Lean into your strengths.
It is Socrates who says, “Know thyself.” Knowing your strengths and what really interest you is key in changing jobs. Believe me when I say, a job you love is much more than money. It is about doing what you really enjoy. Leaning into what brings you joy is critical.
Several months ago, I had a friend ask me, “What gets you out of bed in the morning?” With this question he wasn’t talking about alarms, kids, spouses, or dogs. He was referencing passions. What is it that you are passionate about? What makes you excited to live into your day. It is a very intriguing question and one that all of us needs to answer.
2. Listen to your cheerleaders NOT your critics.
Virginia noted the power of her parent’s words in guiding her to pursue her career and passions. Their voices were significant in encouraging her to consider what she was going to do with her life. They pointed out her strengths and encouraged her to follow her interest. They didn’t tell her what to do. They simply encouraged her to pursue what she was passionate about. As parents, we need to be reminded of just how powerful our words are in the lives of our kids.
A few nights ago, I sat with a friend, over the course of our conversation my desire to grow my consulting business came up. While I have had numerous friends encourage me to pursue this path, this friend looked at me like I was a fool. He shared a few thoughts, but most of them were anything but encouraging and helpful.
As I reflected on his words, I realized that he only cheered me on when I was doing something that he believed in and valued. His interest wasn’t in my passions and pursuits, but in me building his interest. While he wasn’t critical, he wasn’t encouraging. He was more of a wet blanket.
Know that some will not believe in your pursuit of a specific career. Many will think your foolish to not chase money, power, prestige, or something safe. Some will find your interest silly and meaningless if the interest doesn’t match theirs. The best thing you can do is find the people who believe in you. The people who recognize your gifts and talents. Listen to the people pointing you towards something great. Those are the voices that matter.
You’ve got this! Know that lots of us are cheering you on.