"If not this... what?"
When clients come to me for help in determining what's next for them as they manage their careers, the question above usually elicits this response:
"I have no idea. If I did, I wouldn't be
talking to you."
To which, I reply...
'yes, you do...we just need to help
you remember'.
One very effective way to help start the process of remembering is one of those 'if you had no limitations'-type of exercises that might make the cynic in you roll your eyes. But, I encourage you to give it an open minded try:
'The Vision Closet'
When you have achieved what you want in life (success as you define it), what would be in your clothes closet?
Admittedly, when I first did this exercise I absolutely rolled my eyes because I was at a career crossroads and could not think outside my limiting box of: "I have kids to feed, a mortgage to pay, and I need to get a job'. But, I did it anyway.
I recall that I struggled for a few minutes until I landed upon what I did not want in my closet which then opened up the flow of did wants:
- no ties
- no suits
- Only casual slacks
- Only bright colored golf shirts
- Only quality, respected brand labels
- Only well made casual shoes
(A picture was starting to emerge)
The list gave me a clue as to the lifestyle I was seeking which helped me back into the type of employment framework I would need in order to create it. From there, I could more easily look at where my passions lie and connect the dots that led to my approach of creating my own coaching practice.
These past few months, my client assignments have taken me to some pretty nice, warm-weather resort destinations for speaking engagements where the dress code exactly matches the visioned closet. One March morning in Scottsdale, while getting dressed to lead a workshop in nice casual slacks, a bright golf shirt, and a pair of snazzy shoes...I remembered this exercise. And, I realized how it opened me up to the possibilities vs. staying trapped in my own limitations.
So, if you're at a place where you're stuck knowing exactly what you want to do next...think about what your closet might look like and see what clues start to emerge.
One last thought: As effectively as this exercise can help you find a new direction, it can just as easily help you realize that you just might be closer to your vision than you can see right now due to some limitation-centric thinking.
