In this crazy world where we are so busy trying to get things done (due yesterday!) and, frankly, a tad stressed by the mostly bad news assaulting our eyes and ears via the media, it’s rare that we get a chance to sit down and assess where we are in our career and our life. I mean, does that even cross your mind these days? Well, let it. Take a deep breath, grab an ice tea, a cup of coffee, a glass of wine or whatever your fancy, find a quiet spot, and just think for a bit. Are you where you want to be, and if not, why not?
When we are able take time to do a self-assessment, we often attribute the “why nots” to external reasons – not enough or the right kind of education or training, lack of opportunities, too much competition, family or other responsibilities preventing us from daring to dream. But if we get really honest with ourselves, often the biggest hurdle to our success is inside, not outside. It’s those internal barriers, or as I like to call them “show stoppers” that plague our ability to get to where we want to be.
So here’s an exercise for you. Look at the abbreviated list of “show stoppers” below. Add any that you know about yourself. (Be brutally honest!). Pick 3 that you think have gotten in the way of your achieving the career and/or life you want.
o I have difficulty managing time
o I have difficulty selling myself
o I tend to be resistant to new ideas/people
o I’m easily distracted
o I have a fear of change
o I have a fear of failure
o I’m a perfectionist
o I’m not good at follow-through
o I can be controlling
o I have difficulty setting priorities
o I’m afraid my age will hold me back
o I have a fear of financial insecurity
o I tend to take a negative view of things
o I have difficulty making decisions
o I’m often disorganized
o I lack self-confidence
o I tend to act first, think later
o I procrastinate
Now rank the 3 you selected from 1 to 3, with 1 being the show stopper you most want to reduce. Recognizing your show stoppers is the first step. Now make a plan, including “strategy to overcome” and “by when” date. Enlist a close friend, colleague or loved one to keep you honest and on track.
And remember, don’t stop believin’.
For more tips on achieving the career you want, check out my no-nonsense plan for finding the work you want. The Get Real Guide to Your Career.
Till next time,
Karen
