I had never really thought about the true meaning of the term ‘career journey’ until quite recently when I made a detour on my own journey.
Before embarking on any journey, there is usually some level of planning required. It does not really matter whether you are traveling by air, land or water, the same principles apply in getting ready right before you set off till when you reach your final destination. There are several decisions you take that could determine how the journey progresses, the experiences you have along the way and whether or not the journey was worth it in the first place.
I ‘m sure that for some of us, we can relate to the fact that no matter how well prepared we are, sometimes the unexpected happens. It could be something we did not anticipate or even if we had given it the slightest of thoughts…., when it does happen we have absolutely no control over it or the outcome.
When faced with a career setback, what then is the best way to handle it? Here are a few practical tips / ways you can turn that setback into an opportunity to reinvent yourself. I refer to them as the 3Gs - Gratitude, Goals, Growth!!!
Gratitude is key
Appreciate how far you have come along the journey. You’ve had smooth runs and also encountered bumps along the way but still able to navigate your way through.
Celebrate the wins (big & small) along the way.
Goals give direction and focus
Take stock of where you are now and where you want to go. Where is that place and what does it look like? How do you plan to get there? What do you need to make it a successful trip?
Identify any gaps that currently exist and decide on how to close those gaps
Make a new plan, execute and monitor progress
Growth is a part of life
Along your career journey, you may have thought of certain things you needed to do such as learn a new skill, start a side hustle, be more present in your relationships, connect and network with new people, write a book, start a charity ,…..the list is endless. But somehow you always felt these thoughts were distractions that you did not have the time to pursue. Well, guess what? Now you do, so take action as this leads to growth.
And finally, do not lose yourself. Stay positive, stay hopeful, have faith!