Write your complaints on paper. A University of Texas study showed that people who journal about their job losses typically get new jobs 25% faster than those who don't. Sit down at your computer and write the most angry, vile account you can. Then, print it out and burn it. This little "ceremony" can help you get past the anger and move into a space of power.
See your role in your job loss or dissatisfaction. Determine what mistakes you might have made. Decide how you might handle things differently next time. One job seeker remembered that she had openly criticized her job and the company just as management was planning a RIF. No wonder she was one of the first ones to go! This exercise can also help you understand that YOU CAUSE your life.
Accept your feelings. Understand and OWN your feelings. If you block your feelings, you are blocking your motivation. As you accept your feelings, you accept yourself. If you want to be empowered, you first have to accept who you are. Your parents or your siblings might express the opinion "You should have been grateful to have that job." No one else's opinion matters. Your feelings do.
Define your satisfactions. Look at your job situation and define what the good elements were. Remember the successes, the joys, and the fun. One nurse leaving the labor-and-delivery department of a hospital remembered her absolute delight in giving newborns their first baths. You'll want to capture your satisfactions so that you can recreate them in the next job. (Catherine Jewell uses the SIREN model of career satisfaction. If you would like a copy, simply visit her website and request one.)
Define a vision. Using the negative experiences you have had, define the way you would like things to be. For example, if you had a boss who micromanaged you, your new job vision would be a democratic boss who respects your ability. Having a vision is the first step to fulfilling it. Once you have a career vision in words, check it frequently and imagine yourself in that new position.
Make conscious choices. We get our power back by making careful, conscious choices about our lives. Each time we make a choice, we build self-confidence and self-esteem. Any time you are unsure what action to take, call someone and ask for advice.
Then, CHOOSE. Remember: making no choice is a choice for inactivity, failure, and depression. Making a careful choice is the road to success.
About the Author
Catherine Jewell is on a personal quest to help everyone find perfect work. She has helped hundreds successfully change careers, industries, and occupations—while increasing satisfaction, success, and income. She believes you can do the same! All that is required is the courage to discover who you truly are and to know your Career Passion™. For more information, visit www.workdharma.com.
