Anyone in the Greater Houston, Texas, metropolitan area can attest to our climate’s ever-present heat and humidity. The surprise is that although it seems much hotter this year compared to other years, many records remain intact.
Yet, daily we are reminded of the rising temperatures and the call to stay hydrated. We are also vigilant in surveying our surroundings to detect any need for change.
A Temperature Check
As with the weather reminders, it’s a great time to pause and take a career temperature, hydration, and environmental check.
Assess if your temperature rises as you achieve your desired goals.
- Are you staying hydrated through continuous learning?
- Are you actively engaging in your profession?
- Are you honing your leadership skills (whether a people leader or individual contributor), and expanding impact within your sphere of influence?
- Are you building and maintaining professional networks to proactively connect with others? Are you giving generously and calling upon your network to reciprocate and help you?
- Are you surveying the landscape for potential growth and development opportunities?
A “yes” response to these questions may indicate you are well on your way to fulfilling your talents and potential.
Yet, at any stage of life and career, you can explore how your natural interests, strengths and motivators influence your career options and personal satisfaction.
Life Example
A successful banker learned the value of this introspection. She discovered her keen interest in social services while realizing her ideal work environment is sales and marketing-focused. As a non-profit organization volunteer, she serves clients to meet their needs and finds it a satisfying experience.
With her volunteerism and broader awareness, she can capitalize on her interests and work environment preferences. With the potential to support fundraising, she can create an even more satisfying volunteer experience and create an advantage for the organization.
Beyond volunteerism, an overall career temperature check provided the banker with an eye-opening revelation of career options. This planted the seeds for change in career direction.
Takeaways
Never underestimate the power of your innate interests and preferences. These open the doors to connect your passion and profession, a winning proposition for you and your employer.
“Be true to what naturally interests you – and be brave enough to turn an obsession into a profession” – Shelly Branch.
It’s neither too early nor too late to check your career’s temperature. You can discover and follow the career path with the highest potential for your personal satisfaction.
Your time is now!
Lillian Davenport, SPHR, SHRM – SCP, CTACC, Principal, End View Solutions, LLC
