We've reached the end of another week.
For many people, Friday is a chance to switch off, catch up on life or start thinking about the week ahead. But before you move on too quickly, I'd encourage you to pause for just a few minutes.
One of the patterns I've noticed over years of coaching is that people rarely wake up one morning feeling completely disconnected from their work. It happens gradually. We become busy, capable and reliable. We say yes to opportunities, solve problems, support others and keep moving forward. None of those things are bad. In fact, they're often the very things that help us build successful careers.
The challenge is that busyness can become a distraction from paying attention.
It's possible to be making progress while quietly drifting away from the work that gives you energy. It's possible to become so focused on what's next that you stop noticing what has changed within you.
The hierarchy of our values evolve. Our priorities shift. The season of life we're in changes. Yet many of us keep making career decisions based on a version of ourselves that no longer exists.
This weekend, rather than thinking about what you need to do next, spend a little time noticing where you are now.
Three questions to take with you into the weekend:
1. What part of my work has given me energy this week, and what has consistently taken it away?
Energy is often a better guide than we give it credit for. Pay attention to the moments when you felt engaged, curious or fulfilled, as well as the moments that left you feeling depleted.
2. If nothing changed in my career over the next three years, how would I honestly feel?
Try not to answer this with your head. Notice your first emotional response before logic starts to explain it away.
3. What have I been too busy to notice about myself lately?
Perhaps you've outgrown something. Perhaps you've discovered a new strength. Or perhaps there's a quiet voice that's been trying to get your attention for some time.
Sometimes clarity doesn't come from searching harder.
Sometimes it comes from slowing down long enough to notice what has been there all along.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Michelle