Is Your Career Feeding Your Soul?
I did it. Roughly three years ago, I mustered up the courage to make a huge career transition. I left a very lucrative and sexy career in the field of technology. While I enjoyed the financial rewards earned through my work, after 22 years I realized that the ladder I was climbing was leaning against the wrong building. My soul yearned for something more; I yearned for more meaning, joy, and a truly prosperous career that fueled my soul.
And, so, I ask you the very question that I’ve had to ask myself. Is your career feeding your soul?
The connection between our career choices and emotional health is undeniable. Eighty-one thousand, three hundred and ninety-six hours is the amount of time most will spend working over a lifetime according to Gallup. Our careers take up a substantial portion of our energy and play a pivotal role in our mental well-being. Chasing paychecks, promotion, and prestige may seem great initially, but in the end, it can leave you feeling unfulfilled and detached - detached from your true self. When our work resonates with our core values and passions, all is well with our souls. Conversely, stress, burnout and life dissatisfaction could be indicators of a career and soul mismatch.
Are You and Your Career Misaligned? Recognizing the Signs
Is your career the right fit for you? Here are a few warning signs that may indicate career misalignment:
1. Monday Morning Blues: You wake up Monday morning dreading the week and wishing it was Friday.
2. Lack of Aptitude or Ability: You feel like your talents and strengths are not being capitalized in your current job.
3. Lack of Passion: You lack zeal and feel like you are merely going through the motions while performing your daily tasks.
4. Chronic Stress: You feel like the demands of your job are constant and unrelenting.
5. Physical Symptoms: You have headaches, chest pains, sleep disturbances, irritability, or digestive issues triggered by job demands.
6. Procrastination: You avoid work responsibilities, even when faced with critical deadlines.
Taking Steps Towards Career Transformation
If you find yourself with a career mismatch, the good news is there is help available. Here are a few steps you can take to gain more fulfillment from your career:
1. Rediscover Your True Self: Gain a deeper understanding of your core values and passions through self-reflection. If you have difficulty going deeper in your self- reflection, a therapist is waiting to help.
2. Explore Alternatives: Research and explore alternative career options that better align with your values and passions. If you need more assistance with identifying careers better suitable for you, seek out the assistance from a career wellness therapist.
3. Set Clear & Attainable Goals: Develop a strategic plan with actionable steps to transition into a fulfilling career.
4. Seek Support: Reach out and stay connected to your support system - friends, family, and mentors - during your transition.
5. Don’t Forget About Self-Care: Transitions can be challenging, so remember to prioritize your self-care to manage stress and maintain well-being.
FInally…
Your career is so much bigger than the next promotion or a way to pay the bills; it’s a significant part of your life and identity that profoundly influences your mental health and overall wellness.
Is your career feeding your soul? If your answer is “no” and you are one of the many professionals unhappy with your career, I encourage you to be courageous and take the next step towards the life you deserve.
Embarking on a journey towards a career that aligns with your core values and passions may be challenging initially, but it’s a path that will take you to a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life. It’s a journey well worth taking.
Written by: Angell Berry, MA (under supervision)
Angell is accepting new clients. Call 615-784-9209 to book with Angell.