Like it or not, there's some emotional prep work to do before we move from one role or career to another. You don't want to turn up in the next space a twisted bag of bitterness or a sobbing mess, missing your old work (even if you were ready to leave)!
Often, there's a little baggage to let go of and some treasures to take forward.
If you're thinking about a new career move or have just made one, make sure you do these two things to supporting your wellbeing and to go into your next role firing on all cylinders!
Step 1. Write down all the things you hate(d) about your work
Have you written them down? Get them ALL OUT. Better out than in. That stuff is toxic.
Now notice what is the reality of the situation. Maybe Jerry is always a jerk, HR policies are unfair and Michelle is, well, whatever.
Notice how other's behaviour is outside your control. That you can only control your responses.
Notice how you can advocate for change but that it may or may not happen.
Let yourself feel sad, angry, whatever comes up for you.
Have a cup of tea, be kind to yourself.
Feel those feelings or they will stay with you.
Take any lessons you can from the difficult parts of your role. Really think about what you've learnt about yourself, about others and about systems/organisations/processes. This is invaluable learning.
Now as for the stuff you hate. Detach.
Choose to let it go.
It doesn't deserve to take up space in your head.
It is draining you.
You might like to burn the paper list or do something symbolic for you.
Step 2. Write down all the things you like(d) about your work
That's right, write them all down: The people you loved, the places, the things that really worked for you. The parts of work that made you feel alive or valued, satisfied or like you were really making a difference.
What have you learnt? What challenges did you overcome?
With your list, feel it through your body, all those good times.
Laugh. Shed a tear. Give yourself a hug. Trust that you'll find as much, if not much more beauty, fascination, energy, contribution, focus and satisfaction in the future.
They are not finite resources.
Now take a moment to be grateful for the good, however large or small it may be.
BONUS STEP FOR THE THOROUGH OR COMMITTED
For those committed to really making the most of these steps, a bonus step is to compile a list of what you liked best and hated about your work in the most in general of terms. It will make a checklist of sorts that you can use to compare to future roles, careers and business prospects.
That's smart thinking!
Do the emotional prep and be your own best advocate for a wonderful experience next time.
You deserve it!
If you'd like to go into your next position firing on all cylinders, I'm here to help you do just that. Grab a free 60 minute session with me today!
To your success!
xx Lara
Hi, I'm Dr Lara Corr, life coach and researcher in work and wellbeing. I coach successful 30 and 40 somethings who want more fulfilling or bigger careers but doubt themselves and their options. I help them get out of their own way, find direction and go for what they really want.