I’m amazed by the worldwide changes in the financial system and the economy that are unfolding before us. New worldwide systems are demanded, and emerging. Many of us will be facing new work pressures as a result. So here’s a reminder of the principles behind finding fulfillment in life through work. I hope this is useful to you.
1. Welcome reality.
Whenever you feel frustrated, angry, upset, depressed, or any other negative emotion, you are resisting the truth. If the truth is that you just dropped a bundle in an investment, or you just lost your job, accept it. And then step back one pace further to realize that somehow, it’s for the best. The current reality may be uncomfortable and challenging, but it really is better somehow in the biggest sense of the idea. It may cause you some pain, but if you choose to look for it, you’ll find a much bigger advantage in store for you in the long run. Opportunities abound in times of change.
2. Know yourself.
When you know what kind of person you are, you can add value in the most efficient ways possible. If you’re in a role that doesn’t suit you, you’ll end up burned out or fired, particularly when budgets tighten and workplace demands increase. Workplace roles are constantly changing, so you need to keep rediscovering how well you fit your work, what kind of support you need to be at your best and how you can use your special strengths to best advantage. Know yourself and then act as the guardian and champion of your unique value.
3. Foster relationships.
The quality of the relationships you form throughout your career are a handy measure of your quality and value as a person. I don’t mean that someone with few relationships is not valuable, only that they may not be seen as valuable. A personal recommendation is worth far more than a credential. The relationships you have nurtured over many years, including personal, collegial and vocational relationships, can provide you with inside information, referrals, feedback and moral support in times of change. Foster a wide variety of relationship with quality people through small investments in connection over long periods of time.
4. Remember that you’re here to serve.
It is humbling to realize that your knowledge, skills and talents have no value on their own. They are only worth something when they are put into service for someone else. While it’s tempting to think about what you want to do with your work life, it is more effective to think about what you can do for others. The perspective of being in service allows you to see how you are most useful to the people who will pay you, whether as employers, customers or clients. Put your highest value talents, that is the skills that fulfill you, into the service of others and you will maximize your success.