What Do You Value?

Choosing the first few entries for the blog launch was a difficult task since I truly cherish each woman’s unique story. Heidi Roizin’s transition is indeed motivational for many women so it was a great place to begin. Heidi was motivated to lose weight which led to her profitable CD venture: SkinnySongs. She had a physical and a professional reinvention, and so can you. The first step in a career reinvention is to get quiet with your SELF and assess your values, interests, personality, and skills. Today we’ll focus on values. A thoughtful self reflection can help you determine your plan of action for a career transition. We all know people who are unhappy in their jobs. So take the time to thoughtfully consider what you value because research shows that values are the biggest predictor of career satisfaction.

We each value different things and there are no judgments about which are better or worse. You are in control over what you value as well as how you pursue new opportunities that match your passion.

Some people value variety in the workplace, autonomy, security, prestige, or flexibility – the options are endless. Think about what motivates you and why.

• What are your peak experiences?
• How do you spend discretionary money?
• Whom do you admire?
• What reasons have driven your past decisions?

Being aware of what we value in our lives is important because a career choice that is in-line with our core beliefs and values is more likely to be a lasting and positive choice.

Here is a list to get you started thinking about what you value – remember the list is endless:

• Variety
• Structure
• Money
• Stability
• Security
• Travel
• Teamwork
• Independence
• Education
• Excitement
• Leadership
• Family

Take the time to consider your top 5 values based on what you want in your life now. Values change as we progress through life so what you value now may be completely different from a career you had in the past.

I encourage you to maintain a personal career journal where you can start to map out your values and take additional notes as I guide you on your unique career development journey. You will begin to connect the dots and see a clearer picture of what is important to you so you can pursue a career path that’s right for you.