Psychologists have found that increasing amounts of money, benefits, and status are only temporarily satisfying. What motivates most of us in the long run is challenging, interesting work; the opportunity to be creative; a chance to make a contribution; a sense of achievement; recognition for our achievements or some other intrinsic value.

What is it that motivates you? Think of four instances in which you felt highly motivated to do something – in a job, at school, working on a hobby, or some other type of situation.? Please write the four instances as brief “stories” (a paragraph or two for each).? List the common threads in each of your stories. These are some of the things that you should look for when you are looking for a job.

Defining these in story form rather than just a word or phrase is VERY important.

We all have “stakeholders” or “influencers” who are embedded in our sub-conscious when we make decisions.? They may be people who are part of our present or part of our past.? They are always with us (not physically, of course) when we are deciding something important.? Who are your stakeholders?? They may be parents, siblings, bosses, peers, teachers, past acquaintances, former romantic interests, or other influential figures.? What is the tone of their comments that you hear in your head when you are considering what career to choose? How would these stakeholders/influencers describe your strengths & weaknesses? What has been their message to you about your career (spoken or implied)?

What do you believe each of your stakeholders/influencers wants for you AND FOR THEMSELVES from YOUR career? This can be “tricky” and requires some deep thought; but when you identify what your “influencers” (stakeholders) want for you and for themselves through you, you will be able to recognize their presence in your thoughts and you will be able to listen more objectively to their comments.

One of the critical factors in finding the right job lies in identifying your values, as they relate to work. Fulfillment in work comes when the life and work values that are important to you are met through your work.? The company for which you work should share at least the most important of those values.? Otherwise you could experience turmoil and conflict, as well as a feeling that you “can’t be yourself” at work.

Now, think about your current job (or most recent job).? How many of your top five values are (were) being fulfilled through that job?? In what ways are the “why do I work” and “what do I want from my work” answers relevant in your current or most recent job?

I would love to hear from you about your experience in either (or both) professional networking and networking for more personal/social reasons.

Love It or Hate It?

Certified Professional Coach

A powerful tool to help break through barriers is an exercise in which you describe your “Ideal Day.” It is really important that you use both intellect and emotions in the exercise.

Here are the instructions:

Imagine that you are writing a movie script which depicts a day in your ideal life. Describe every detail of the scenery, your feelings, and your activities, as well as the people with whom you are interacting. Imagine there are no restrictions in time, money, or any other aspect.  What would your ideal day look like?