So glad to be here with you during this career-development-focused month. It’s great to see that you’re participating!
In the previous three mini-blogs of this five-part series, we’ve covered approach, mindset, and action steps—all to get you well on your way for your career exploration journey. It’s quite a lot of information up to this point, I know. So, here’s the main takeaway . . .
Stay the course and don’t get overwhelmed.
Sure, it may feel as if I’ve thrown all sorts of considerations, recommendations, and suggestions your way. Now’s your chance to get organized. Step back. Assess what we’ve discussed so far that may be in the way of your careering. What are the steps you feel you need to address a little further—or maybe even A LOT further? It’s all good! Then, consider following a plan like this one. The goal is to get you from where you are now to where you want to be:
- First, take a look at what your needs are and make a list.
Have you included everything? Even if you haven’t, remember that you can always come back and add to the list at any time. - Next, break up each item on your list into smaller tasks.
Some people choose to outline only main bullet items, then go from there. Others prefer including even the tiniest of to-dos on their list. Go with whatever approach feels right to you. You may decide on some combination of both. Regardless, you won’t really know until you try. - Search for a new perspective on, or new approach to, what you’re trying to accomplish.
Sometimes, all it takes is a little research on the web. Other times, it can be refreshingly insightful to seek and receive feedback from adults whose input you value. Also, be sure it’s someone whom you absolutely trust. Safety. First. Always. - Share, discuss, and collect new ideas among your friends and peers.
In addition to speaking with adults, it can be immensely valuable to initiate and coordinate a virtual gathering of other young people. Think of it as a study team for career exploration. It’s amazing how validating and powerful it can be to actively share in the career exploration experience with others. Things you can discuss can include what you’ve encountered so far, what’s worked and what hasn’t, and feedback on tasks you’ve come up with. Who knows, others may share needs and tasks you’ll want to add to your own list or vice versa. It’s an effective buddy-championing system that can keep your momentum strong and career vision focused and on point.
For those of you who’ve been with me from Day One this month, here’s a special note:
Let’s face it. It’s the fourth week into National Career Development Month. Perhaps you may be losing your forward-steam ahead. Be sure to stick with your career exploration and make it part of a regular weekly routine. It’s about creating habits. The honest truth is that it’s not a one-and-done kind of thing. Think of it as an adventurous journey, one where you are the captain of your own ship and have the ability and power to steer your own course!
Lastly, with Thanksgiving upon us in a few days, here’s a special message as an added holiday bonus:
The holiday season is upon us until the New Year. At mealtimes, you’ll no doubt be having conversations with parents/guardians or other adult relatives, perhaps virtually or because you all live in the same residence.
HUGE advice: Completely capitalize on this special time. Take advantage of this decidedly more relaxed social atmosphere over the day-to-day rush of other times of the year. Ask all those careering-related questions you’ve been wanting to. Listen and gather information as informal yet important research, an “informational interviewing” of sorts.
To quote Oprah: “You get in life what you have the courage to ask for.” After all, you’ll never know what positive avenues may open up for you or what opportunities the answers you receive may lead to. Plus, if—and it’s a big IF—it’s not such a helpful response, then don’t mind or dwell on it. Just move it along. You’ll be better and wiser for it!
No matter where you happen to be in your careering journey, keep taking one step forward at a time. Calmly and purposefully identify and outline your needs, organize your tasks, and enlist others’ input. Know that these are ALL great ways to mind any overwhelming feelings you may be having. Or quite frankly, they are great ways to advance your career exploration even if you don’t have any such feelings! Most importantly, stay the course of careering!
