5 Ways to Add More Purpose in Any Job and Gain Success

One of the greatest challenges faced by most workers is finding meaning and purpose in their careers. It is one of the most common reasons individuals "job hop" and seek coaching support. According to some studies, nearly two thirds of Americans are dissatisfied at work. And to add to this conundrum is that most are working more hours with less resources in this post Great Recession of 2008 era. In fact, a 2014 Gallop poll indicates that half of all full-time workers indicate they typically work more than 40 hours, and nearly four in 10 say they work at least 50 hours. The 40 hour work week is really a 47-hour work week (not including travel time to and from work).

However, whether you work in a hospital or supermarket, YOU CAN make your job more meaningful. And while you probably need your boss to approve a raise or a bigger office, these are some adjustments you can make on your own. Take a look at these 5 ideas and implement them to add more purpose and fulfillment into your job.

• Help your coworkers. Our relationships with our colleagues play a big role in our happiness at work. Pitch in with assembling press packages or proofreading the presentations. Share your sandwich when your office mate is stuck on a conference call during lunch.
• Create a great customer experience. You can brighten someone's day by going the extra mile to help them feel delighted with their purchase. Take time to answer their questions and point out helpful features. Thank them warmly for doing business with you.
• Advance the organizational mission. If your employer benefits society, you can find gratification in being part of the team. Maybe you raise awareness about lung cancer or design safer cars.

You are responsible for the talent that has been entrusted to you! ~ Matthew 25

• Strengthen your communication skills. It is a "must have" in your success toolbox. Ask for feedback about how you come across in writing and in person. And make appropriate adjustments.
• Practice your leadership skills. Strategic thinking and inspiring others are valuable traits at every stage in your career. Welcome projects that give you a chance to rehearse for future challenges.
  
• Sign up for training. Once, when I was bored with the monotony of my job, I took a course to become a web master. This was in the early 2000's when someone had to actually program a website. (Now-a-days you can create a site by dragging and dropping.) That insight paid off. Two short years later, I applied for a job as a Marketing Manager for new websites the company was developing. I was the only candidate that had experience in web technology. Take advantage of opportunities to learn something new. You can create opportunities for your future success while growing and enhancing your overall well-being.

• Upgrade your presentations. Make the most of your reporting responsibilities. Dazzle your supervisor with a multimedia presentation and compelling graphics when they ask you to research vendors or conference venues.
• Start an ambiance committee. Attractive and neat surroundings aid productivity and morale. Suggest forming a committee to make recommendations on how to beautify the office. Coordinate a company-wide cleanup day.
• Share your hobby. Welcome your passions into the workplace. You could bring in flowers from your garden or take photographs at special events.

When I was 5 years old, my mother always told me that happiness was the key to life. When I went to school they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I wrote down "happy". They told me I didn't understand the assignment. I told them they didn't understand life. ~ John Lennon

Tony Hsieh, the founder of Zappos.com, Inc. built a billion dollar company on the principles of happiness and having a fun work environment. What can you do?

• Plan a party. Organize birthday parties for your department. Offer a surprise breakfast to celebrate National Dance Like a Chicken Day.
• Promote good health. Encourage friendships and fitness. Put together a company softball team. Negotiate a group discount at a local gym.
• Look at the funny side of things. Search for the humor in any situation. Look forward to the customers and clients who bring in pictures of their cats.

• Network extensively. If you believe it's time to look for a different position, you can still use your time constructively. Try to make more contacts with those who can help you advance your career. Attend meetings and volunteer at the nearest chapter of your professional association. Invite people out to lunch and send them articles they might be interested in.
• Document your accomplishments. Record achievements that will sound impressive on your resume. Adding value during your last days on the job will keep you motivated and energized.
• Facilitate the transition. Remind yourself of what you like about your job and why you're grateful to your current employer. Think of how you can create a smooth transition for your successor while you go off to find a new job, return to school, or start your own business.

Even trivial tasks feel significant when you understand why you're doing them. Feeling more content at work will reduce stress and add more meaning to your life. If you've got to be at work then be PRESENT while you're there!

Turn opposition into opportunities and boredom into stardom by taking advantage of ALL opportunities to grow and provide service to others. What you give out comes back to you! Don't delay in implementing these suggestions to create more fulfillment in your job and experience greater SUCCESS!

5 Ways to Embrace Change and Excel at Work

Most people will agree that the American workplace has changed more in the last five years than it has in the previous 25. Seismic shifts in technology, social media and management have drastically changed how we work. Corporate downsizing has led to many employees doing more with less. It’s no surprise that these changes have led to an overwhelming level of disengagement in the workplace. According to Gallup, over 23 million U.S. workers feel disconnected or dissatisfied with their careers.

Dealing with alterations to your normal work procedures can be frustrating, unwanted, and even scary. Learning to accept change at work is critical for your success. The key is to understand the change and to position yourself to receive the benefits so that you can excel despite the challenges. Implement these strategies to guide you towards embracing workplace changes with optimism for greater success at work.

(1) UNDERSTAND YOUR CONCERNS ABOUT THE CHANGE. Ask yourself what scares you or makes you angry about a recent change at work. Once you know you’re concerns you will be able to deal with them to better succeed in the work environment. Maybe you think your job or paycheck is threatened. Perhaps you think the company might close because of the change. Explore all the possibilities. If you find that your concerns are legitimate, create a Plan B that you can implement in your worst-case scenarios. Once you make an action plan, resolve to let go of your uneasiness about situations you can't control and optimistically expect the best results that could happen from the change.

(2) TRUST THE CHANGE. Be assured that the people running the company are making the choice to change for a reason that will benefit the company. Recognize that people in power have a picture of the entire situation. When I exited my career at a Fortune 100 company, the organization was at the beginning stages of implementing a new commercial strategy. I was part of the “Change” team so I had insight that others did not have. I understood the importance of the changes as they were necessary to maintain a healthy position in the industry. However, co-workers with less information were not as optimistic in embracing the changes. The changes didn't limit me. They empowered me! Be committed to the goals of the organization to lessen your anxieties about the change to perform at your optimal level. If it’s best the company ultimately it’s best for you.

(3) LIMIT “CHANGE” CONVERSATIONS. Avoid lengthy discussions with co-workers about changes, especially if your peers are focusing on negativity related to the changes. Some co-workers might be antagonistic due to their own fears and insecurities. Negative talk spreads like a cancer. Stay immunized by declining to share thoughts that might be interpreted as negative when engaging with others. Instead make an effort to be understanding and communicate thoughts about the positive results the change should bring.

(4) ACCEPT THE CHANGE. Recognize that an important aspect of your work is to support the management and carry out your leaders' directives. Simplify the situation for yourself by pledging to respect the changes and perform your duties as required. You are there for a purpose. That purpose is to do your job well, improve your skills and earn a paycheck. Stay focused on your goals and strive for excellence, regardless of the situation.

(5) WELCOME THE CHANGE. Make a decision to face the change head-on and do whatever it takes to glean positive results from the new plans. Challenge yourself and have confidence that you can handle it. Your work situation might actually improve because of the new changes. This could be a time of rejuvenation, renewal and newfound efficiency. Be patient throughout the implementation process. And allow yourself to expect your work situation to benefit your greater good.

Although changes at work might be scary and unwanted, open your mind to the possibilities of change. Change provides an opportunity for skill building and new career experiences. Put some of these strategies into practice if changes occur where you work so you won’t be a part of the millions who aren't engaged. Make it a purposeful decision – not a fleeting thought! You CAN embrace change at work and experience greater fulfillment with positivity, confidence, and patience!

If these topics interest you, please connect with me on social media or leave a comment. Thanks for visiting!

3 Self-Assertiveness Strategies to Gain More Power and Influence

During my tenure as a corporate employee in the manufacturing division of a Fortune 100 company, I was often the only female in team meetings. I knew that speaking up and communicating ideas effectively were important for my success. I could never become a member of the “good ole boys club” but I could influence their respect for me and their perception of my contributions to organizational goals.

As you seek success in business, personal relationships, or any venture, it helps to take stock of your level of self-assertiveness. Assertiveness is the ability to honestly express yourself without undue self-doubt or anxiety. Assertive people are confident, self-assured and often recognized as leaders. It’s not only apparent in their communication but also in their behaviors.

While some are born assertive, for others self-assertiveness is a cultivated skill. I was fortunate enough to attend an all girls high school which focused on ways to be effective in these kinds of settings.

If you need solutions to deal with an office bully, overzealous friend, aggressive business partner or to improve your negotiation skills, implement these three strategies to gain control and enhance your interactions with others.

(1) Identify your boundaries and set limits. Don’t be a push-over. Figure out where to draw the line when dealing with others. How much abuse are you willing to take? Be honest with yourself and avoid letting self-doubt stop you from defining new boundaries.

• Start by writing down your plan to manage through various situations.Research proves that externalizing your thought process improves your chances of making a lasting impact on your future behavior. Pay attention to your internal reactions. Recall past situations in which you let someone go too far. How did you feel? At what point could you have put your foot down? Write it. See it. Say it. And put it into action.

(2) Eliminate toxic relationships. Empower yourself by letting go of individuals and partnerships that drain your energy and stifle your growth. If discussions and collaborations are unhealthy, it’s time to move on. While the split may be painful initially, you will flourish once you’re free of those influences.

• Simply begin by declining meetings, limiting conversations, engaging in other activities of interest and cultivating new relationships. You don’t have to make a grand announcement or hold a forum. Let your actions speak for you. You’ll build self-esteem and confidence which will attract individuals who will treat you with the respect you deserve.

(3) Think on purpose. As you become more assertive, you’ll need a strategy to deal with individuals who overstep your boundaries. Maintain a calm demeanor for effectual communications even if they become defensive. The individual may feel as if they’re under attack, especially if you haven’t taken them to task before. In this situation, they will likely try to derail you by changing the subject. Use the ASSA method to keep discussions on topic and to the point:

• Alert the person that you would like to speak with them.
• State your grievance clearly and calmly.
• Sell the benefits of them altering their behavior.
• Agree that they’ll do things differently in the future.

You’ll likely find that becoming assertive will change your life. You’ll gain the confidence needed to develop beneficial relationships with colleagues, partners and your management team. And you’ll attract opportunities that facilitate personal and professional success.

For more information to build CONFIDENCE, click here to download "How to Regain Confidence Even If Your Struggles Have Destroyed You".

FOCUS: 4 TIPS to ACHIEVE GREATER SUCCESS

One of the biggest concerns of coaching clients is staying on task to reach specific goals. In today’s modern world of technology, the  constant beeping, buzzing, texting, emailing and tweeting make it difficult to concentrate.

But all things are possible! Try these strategies to stay focused the next time you’re challenged in reaching your goals:

1.     Narrow your list. Focus on 1-3 major goals that you hope to achieve within a designated time frame. This ensures that you aren't spreading yourself too thin, and as a result, losing your motivation.

2.     Break down your goals into a series of smaller steps. You’ll feel less overwhelmed and this makes reaching your ultimate goal that much easier.

3.     Get an accountability partner to share your experiences with as you work towards your goal. Ideally, this person will be someone who can encourage you when obstacles arise and celebrate your successes with you along the way.

4.     Create a goal board. This is an inspiring visual reminder of why you created your goals in the first place. Fill it with pictures and other images that help you maintain your enthusiasm and focus.

It takes hard work and consistent effort to achieve major goals. Remember you get what you focus on so focus on what you want!

For support to reach your goals for success connect with me at coachadrean@gmail.com or schedule here for a free consultation.

LIVE BEYOND LIMITS

Do you put limitations on yourself? Do you find reasons to quit a task before you even get started? It is not uncommon. As rational thinkers our natural tendency is to weigh the “costs and benefits” to achieve our goals. But at times it’s much easier to find reasons why something may not work versus the joy and accomplishment we could derive from achieving the success. This thinking limits our abilities to experience greater fulfillment and satisfaction. A limiting mindset may stem from a difficult childhood, low self-esteem, or past failures. Yet, despite the specific reason, it all boils down to fear.

Unlock your potential and overcome limitations with these tips:

·       EMBRACE YOUR LIMITATIONS. Realize that even if you’re not the best at something, you can still be very successful, as long as you make an effort. There will always be someone smarter, stronger, or better looking than you. But they aren't you. Everyone is given a unique gift to fulfill their calling. Find yours and avoid letting a fear of inadequacy stop you from trying. It’s okay if you try and fail. Failing to try is the only true failure.

·       WORK A LITTLE HARDER. Thomas Edison once said, "Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration." Even coming up with a great idea for a new service or product is more about hard work than about being brilliant. Lots of people are talented, but it takes someone who's willing to put in the extra effort to make it successful. Just get to work and do your best.

·       GET INTO POSITION. Before you get in your car and turn on the ignition, you have a destination in mind. Accomplishing things in life can be the same way. Have a clear understanding of where you want to go and then you can figure out how to get there. Step out of your comfort zone and step into the fulfillment zone.

·       EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES. Sometimes things seem impossible for us, only because that’s what we believe them to be. Open your mind and overcome the onstacles blocking your potential. Focus on what you can do and believe the best for your next steps. You'll be amazed at how things will work out for your good.

Turn “I wish” into “I WILL” and live beyond your limits! Take a moment and share a success you’ve achieved through limitless living.

IS YOUR EGO IN THE WAY OF CAREER SUCCESS?

We are constantly making decisions to determine the best pathways and solutions that will lead to our success. And it’s not always easy to tell if our choices are coming from the right place. Follow your ego and you might be successful in many ways, but you’re likely to find yourself wondering why you’re not as happy as you think you should be. However, if you follow your intuition, your life is likely to be more enjoyable and meaningful.

Learning to determine whether you’re being guided by intuition or ego can make a huge difference in your career. While there are no hard and fast rules to make the distinction, there are tendencies that can serve as a guide. Consider these differences:

1.     Ego-based decisions are grounded in fear and self-preservation. If you decide to go to medical school primarily for reasons of financial security, that’s ego. If you decide to not ask for the promotion, that’s ego. Intuitive thoughts feel calm, relaxed, and peaceful.

2.     Ego-based decisions typically have emotion connected to them resulting in nervous or anxious feelings. A choice made from a place of intuition just feels “right” and often comes out of left field. You might be surfing the internet and be hit with the idea of becoming an artist. The resulting battle in your head is your ego fighting back.

3.     Ego-based decisions involve rationalization. Your ego is wonderful at convincing you that its choice is the right one. “I’ll never get that job. Imagine how disappointed I’ll feel when it doesn’t work out. People like me are destined to only be supervisors, but there’s nothing wrong with that. I can still have a decent life.” It’s really just a rationalization based on fear – fear of success or fear of failure.

4.     Ego-based decisions consider external results. Are you writing a book in order to have a bestseller? Are you taking an action to gain certain results from others? A thought or decision arising from intuition is based on internal results. You’ll write a book because you’re fascinated with the idea not whether or not it will be a best seller. You’ll take an action because it will provide you with self-satisfaction not to gain outside attention.

5.     The ego tries to justify itself with facts, figures, and logic. Intuition doesn’t require these tricks to compel you. It doesn’t involve judgment statements about right or wrong, good or bad. If you’re using logic to convince yourself of a course of action, you can bet that’s your ego talking.

While the ego can be very limiting, that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s wrong. Remember that the ego’s motivation is largely based on self-preservation. Your ego believes that it has your best interests at heart. The trick is to realize when your ego is holding you back from something bigger and better. Think before choosing which voice to follow and use these tips to help you make a decision that will bring you true happiness and career success.

Retire Now!

Rashard Mendenhall, a running back for the NFL, announced that he is retiring after only six seasons, walking away from the opportunity to earn millions of dollars. Rashard wrote, in a post titled "Why I Retired At 26" that he doesn’t want to play anymore. As for the question of what he’ll do - Rashard says, “I will live! I plan to live in a way that I never have before, and that is freely, able to fully be me, without the expectation of representing any league, club, shield or city. I do have a plan going forward, but I will admit that I do not know how things will totally shape out. That is the beauty of it! I want to travel the world and write!” Rashard is doing what most people only imagine. He’s following his heart to pursue his passions.

If you want more out of life -go get it! Don’t allow the fear of failure, the fear of the unknown or the opinions of others suffocate your dreams and desires. The only person who will suffer from the inaction is you. You were created you to THRIVE not just survive. You are a DIVINE design- engineered to SUCCEED. You were made for EXCELLENCE! Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Take the moment and make it perfect!

Like Rashard, when you follow your passion you may not have all the answers. You may not even know where to start. But what you do know is that you have to do something different. Many people have started with much less and achieved remarkable success. The only difference between them and others is that they believed in themselves and were willing to risk losing in order to gain in the future.

RETIRE the limiting beliefs that have held you back from pursuing your dreams. Make a decision now that you will do one thing that moves you forward in achieving your goals. Every accomplishment starts with a decision to try. What will you try today?

 

10 Ways to Build Trust and Credibility for Career Success

Do you remember playing the "TRUST" game when you were a child? You stood in front of someone, held your breath and hoped that when you fell backwards they would catch you. It was nerve wrecking to let go and to rely on someone else to keep you from getting hurt. But after they caught you the first time you were more willing to stand in front of them again and again and lean back without fear. That’s because they earned your trust.
 
As adults that same kind of trust is important to build solid relationships for business and career success. Trustworthy people are invaluable to organizations. They are influencers that consistently demonstrate a pattern of behavior that enhances their credibility. Take these action steps to increase your leadership abilities and capitalize on opportunities of advancement:
 

1.     KEEP YOUR WORD! Your promise should be as binding as a contract.  Reliability is a primary component of trust.

2.     KEEP GOOD COMPANY! Surround yourself with people of high integrity. Your net worth => Your network.

3.     KEEP THE PEACE! Learn how to disagree without being disagreeable. Recognize the value in the opinion of others.

4.     KEEP CONTROL! It’s not only what you bring to the table it’s how you serve it. Professionalism is important. Manage your emotions when you are stressed or under pressure.

5.     KEEP THE VISION! You gain more by making others look good than singing your own praises. Sometimes it not all about you. Remember the overall goal.

6.     KEEP IT A SECRET! Words spoken in confidence are words spoken in trust. Open lines of communication are essential for your success.

7.     KEEP IT HONEST! Admit when you are wrong. Others don't have to guess your motivations or intentions when you're open and honest. You’ll be respected for truthfulness and transparency.

8.     KEEP YOUR PROMISES! Follow through on every commitment you make. Always under promise and over-deliver.

9.     KEEP RECORDS! Ask others to write a recommendation for you. Use their words to build your reputation.

10.  KEEP QUIET! Be a good listener. When people are speaking give them your full attention.  Your silence will speak volumes.

 

Gaining credibility and trustworthiness doesn’t happen overnight. KEEP these action steps in mind and demonstrate trusting behaviors to support you in getting there faster. Don’t get dismayed if at one time or another you let someone down. No one is perfect. But your history will speak loudly of your character if you’ve established a trusting foundation.