If you are tired of what you’re doing in the workplace, it’s time to get your “But…” out of the rut. You deserve to contribute in a meaningful and satisfying way. If you’re not having that experience in your work environment right now, it’s time to stop focusing on reasons why you can’t find something better and begin to develop a workable strategy for making it different. Stop saying, “But…” and start asking, “What?”
I want to thank John Zentgraf, of The Thrive Group, Inc., for the following exercise designed to help you get your “But…” out of the rut.
Taking these four steps will help you identify, with laser accuracy, what you need to energize and fulfill you in the workplace. You will discover your highest priorities and values, and you will identify the deal breakers for a sustained, purposeful career path.
This is the foundation for moving forward and getting your “But…” out of the rut.
(1) Identify the elements that MUST be present.
This might include salary, benefits, profits, work location, work environment, key relationships, expectations, results for your effort, use of your skills and talents, personal values, time frame, terms of commitment, development or promotion potential, time investment, resources needed, etc.
“This is what jazzes me, rocks my world, and inspires me. At the end of the day I’m happy, and I wake up in the morning looking forward to my work because . . .“
Then prioritize these elements as to what energizes you and what diminishes your energy.
What elements give you the most energy?
What elements rob your energy?
(2) Identify the elements that MUST NOT be present.
These are the deal breakers. that make you run, not walk.
“Absolutely not! No way! Couldn’t pay me enough.”
Then prioritize these elements as to what energizes you and what diminishes your energy.
What elements give you the most energy?
What elements rob your energy?
(3) What elements would you like to be present?
These would be ideal elements in your work environment that would make your work all the more pleasurable and satisfying, but that are probably negotiable.
“Gee, it’d be really nice to have this in the workplace. Cream on top. Really would add value and make my work fantastic.”
What elements give you the most energy?
What elements rob your energy?
(4) What elements would you like not to be present?
These are elements that you’d rather not be a part of the deal, but that you might consider if all the “must have” elements are in place.
“If I have to work with this element, I’d do it, but only because I’m really excited and invested in this work.”
What elements give you the most energy?
What elements rob your energy?
Once you have answered these questions you can then explore what kind of work is best suited to your personality, skills, and gifts. You can then choose a path that will energize and satisfy you moving forward.
The next step(s) include planning a strategy to move in that direction. This clarity and vision is essential to carry on where you are, with the hope and knowledge that you are now moving toward what is truly best for you.
And here’s a BONUS for you – these questions can apply to relationships, as well.
