Career Management: The Psychology behind Self-Reflection
As I find myself squarely in my mid-thirties, I am reflecting more on where I am in my life and my career. This raises questions into how work-related elements contribute to how I feel, what I have achieved and wondering what is next. Here are some strategies that can help successfully manage your career.
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Reflecting On Unfulfilled Career Development
Given the substantial amount of time we devote to work and the workplace, it's sometimes hard to see progress in our own career development or career journey, particularly when in the “middle of our lives and careers”.
As we are confronted by our own skills, abilities, and the reality of our circumstances in our work and home lives, some people may feel disillusioned while others will be motivated by the opportunity for change.
Many of the remarkable individuals I have encountered in numerous career coaching discussions all share a common sentiment: the career journey is ongoing. We are continually evolving, developing, and reinventing ourselves, personal growth knows no bounds, and there is always time to achieve ultimate career satisfaction.
How To Successfully Manage Your Career
As you consider your future in the workplace, whether you have a specific career vision or not, here is some wisdom that individuals who have successfully navigated career management to help you consider your future and how to reinvest in the second half of your life.
- Self-Reflection and Assessment: Take time for introspection to understand what really motivates you, and evaluate your skills, strengths, interests, and values. Reflect on past achievements and consider what aspects of your career bring fulfilment and satisfaction.
- Seek Professional Guidance: Consider seeking guidance from career coaches, mentors, or career counsellors who can provide objective insights and help you navigate through this transitional phase.
- Networking and Building Relationships: Expand your professional network by attending industry events, joining professional associations, and connecting with individuals who can offer guidance or potential career opportunities.
- Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable short-term and long-term career goals that align with your passions and values. These goals should be flexible and adaptable to your current circumstances.
- Upgrade Skills and Education: Consider acquiring new skills or further education that align with your career aspirations. Having access to insights about your skills, skills development resources and development plans can really help understand where best to spend your time to get to a career goal.
- Adaptability and Resilience: Embrace adaptability and resilience as key traits. Understand that change is a natural part of life, and being adaptable to new situations or career shifts can lead to growth and new opportunities.
- Stay Positive and Patient: Understand that career transitions take time. Stay positive, patient, and resilient throughout the process, as it might take time to find the right path.
Take Back the Initiative for Your Own Career Journey
The emotions of dissatisfaction stemming from unmet career aspirations should not be underestimated, as they can lead to frustration and feelings of inadequacy. However, it is crucial to recognize that you have control over the situation. Positive psychology research consistently indicates that proactive, goal-oriented behavior is linked to increased satisfaction in both life and career.
So go ahead, take the initiative to make the changes that you've been putting off. The feelings that you are experiencing are your subconscious telling you that it is time to take back control of your career.
Learn more about Skills-Based Development and how you can empower employees to grow and develop within your organization.
References:
Aldwin, C. M., Levenson, M. R., & Spiro, A. (2016). Handbook of Health Psychology and Aging. Guilford Press.
Bailly, N., Mourgues, C., & Guelfi, J. D. (2009). Midlife crisis: Are we ready for a new approach? L'Encephale, 35(5), 423-427.
Lachman, M. E., & Bertrand, R. M. (2001). Personality and aging: Explorations into the midlife. John Wiley & Sons.
Levinson, D. J. (1978). The Seasons of a Man's Life. Ballantine Books.
Staudinger, U. M., & Bluck, S. (2001). A view on midlife development from life-span theory. International Journal of Behavioral Development, 25(3), 245-251.
Whitbourne, S. K. (2009). The Aging Individual: Physical and Psychological Perspectives. Springer Publishing Company.
