A friend – let’s call her Spring in celebration of the recent weather – told me the other day she had been feeling down and grumpy for quite awhile. She realised she could pinpoint the source of those low feelings to how she felt about her job. She had an ideal part-time setup that she was perfectly happy with. She was good at her job and got great feedback from her boss and co-workers. It enabled the lifestyle choices she and her husband had made, in terms of providing some extra cash for holidays and activities, it gave her the flexibility to do the school run. What was the problem?

After some reflection and honesty with herself, she realised she wasn’t excited about work. At all. Didn’t care about it. Wasn’t passionate about it. And it was affecting her whole outlook on life. Spring started wondering what kind of career she could pursue that would spark her motivation. It wasn’t about taking a career break. She knew she wanted to work. What work could she put her time and energy into that she could get excited about… and also, what did she feel she was good at?

Taking some time to reflect on her values, interests, past activities and what really gave her those feelings of joy, motivation, inspiration and the ability to share her talents, Spring came up with some ideas that surprised her. She now has a vision and a plan for how she will make her change over 3 the next years. In just a casual conversation, you could see it in her face, her eyes, her posture, hear it in her tone of voice what a difference this decision has made for her already!

I am so inspired by Spring’s energy and excitement and her feeling of moving forward. Not only does she have an idea, but she is taking significant steps in moving forward. I love these stories!

If your job inspired you, honoured your values, was built from your strengths, and enabled your lifestyle, what would be different for you?