Career Inklings from Columbia

Commitment
By Janet M. Ruck

Not quite in the throes of spring, the weather in the mid-Atlantic promises more every day. The perennials poke out of the ground, seemingly not quite trusting that this is the right time to burst forth.

But, we know the time is here. The calendar tells us that spring has been here for a few weeks now, and, although the weather has been sporadic, the golden sunshine, emerald grass and red-breasted robin confirm its long-awaited arrival.

Do you find yourself often facing the inevitable with hesitation and trepidation? Unsure of what signs or trends to trust and believe, do you find that you waste precious energy in the abyss of indecision? Maybe you’ve been stagnant for a long time, fearful of making a move out of your comfort zone. Perhaps it’s time to seek a job or career that challenges your skills. By taking action at the first hint of change, you create a cycle of momentum that can propel you forward. And, that is what the calendar tells us every year: change is coming. Be prepared, embrace it, and bask in its energy and power.

Flow with the change, give yourself perspective and commit to the growth that will sweep you forward.
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Career Inklings from Columbia

New Growth for All
by Janet M. Ruck

Spring starts tomorrow. Yet, despite the calendar’s annotation, nothing will really “happen” yet. March is a finicky month. Here in the mid-Atlantic, we’ve gone from almost a foot of snow at the beginning of the month to temperatures close to 80 degrees a few weeks afterward. Even though the promise of spring is still but a faint whisper, there are signs all around. The robins are back, sure harbingers of the change in season. Bunnies abound. Cherry blossoms are still in buds, but the hint of pink on the branches suggests that one warm day will burst forth the dormant hues. Our old friends crocuses and daffodils have already made their presence known, with their nodding heads shimmering in the sunlight.

Spring’s promise is in the air, that’s for certain! For me, the beauty of the changing seasons provides me with an opportunity to take stock of changes in my life and career. This is always a good time to reflect upon the change that I can create in my life, and focus less on the ones that somehow get imposed on me.

Do you have a promise to make to yourself this season? Maybe you’ll get some more training to increase your job skills…or, you’ll begin thinking about how to parlay your talents into community or volunteer work…perhaps it’s time to totally rethink the path you’re on and transfer your skills into another career…possibly you’ll follow the advice of all those career guides and really start networking for your job search.

Take a few moments and think about what direction you’re heading and the process you’re following to get there. Ask yourself how you can develop yourself so that this season you’re bursting with new growth.
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Career Inklings from Columbia

The Sound of Your Own Thoughts

Janet M. Ruck

There is a din that is deafening and it proclaims desperation and despair. The news is dire and depression is on the rise. If you heed the warnings, you may find it difficult to lift your head off the pillow, let alone get out of bed. But, reality takes on a varied cast, depending on the receiver. What is your reality? Can you discern it with all the uproar and distractions?

Sometimes I find it helpful to sit with my pen and pad and begin the process of writing. I don’t usually begin with a thought about what I’m going to write. The mere act of writing energizes me enough to keep me going until I have uncovered that “kernel” of truth and self. It can calm and soothe away the sharp edges of a day filled with bad news and predictions of more bad news.

Many of my clients have found themselves unemployed for the first time. They are understandably angry and anxious. Yet, they need to gather themselves and their thoughts so that they can begin or continue their job search. An exercise that I have found to be very helpful as a career counselor is the one which I use for myself. I encourage my clients to start with a blank page (or computer screen). Tabula rasa can be exactly what they need right now. Their minds are still filled with the past, and they will be better prepared for the future by listening to their own thoughts. The deep thoughts. The ones that will clear the way to truth and self.

Ask yourself this one question: “If I could be the best self possible, what would it be?” Set a timer, and write for an uninterrupted five minutes. You’ll be amazed at what your thoughts tell you. They’re still there, waiting to be called from the racket. Give them a chance to be heard.
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Career Inklings from Columbia

Take a Bird’s Eye View of Your Career
By Janet M. Ruck


As jobs become less certain and unemployment numbers rise, it can be difficult to see any positive outcomes or possibilities. Some mental health professionals have advised that we limit our time watching the news, because of the stress resulting from the helplessness we feel as we see the daily turmoil unfold. Yet, there are some who are using this tumultuous time to take the opportunity to view their careers differently, and maybe even take action. Faced with the reality of furlough or termination, some individuals look upon this as a time to re-evaluate choices they’ve made, the direction they’ve taken and perhaps totally change their job or career. Perhaps you’ve thought that the career path you have followed no longer aligns with your interests. Maybe you’re bored with your work, or it doesn’t make the best use of your talents. Are you gliding along, free as a bird, achieving your goals? Or is every day a chore, drudgery to be tolerated, happy just to have a job? This might be a fine time for you to step back and get a “bird’s eye view” of your career.

Sometimes a job’s sole purpose is financial and providing for family is the goal. This is certainly a vital component of going to work every day. But if you’ve been looking for more from your job, and you are ready to find work that gives your life new meaning, then this might be a good time to ask yourself a few questions. Without editing your responses or thinking too much about them as you write, quickly answer the following:

1. What have I always dreamed of doing?
2. Is my current reality aligned with my long-held dreams?
3. Do I see the outcome of my efforts in a meaningful and positive way?
4. Have my achievements been analogous with my goals?
5. Am I able to use my strengths to my and my employer’s advantage?

If your responses make you feel uneasy, this could be the time for you to take steps to infuse new meaning into your work or to view your work differently or maybe even to set your sights on a different career path. If you are working, some suggestions are:

• assist in projects that align with your interests
• change the way you function to better utilize your strengths
• take on different work assignments
• volunteer in your community
• mentor, teach, train others

If you are not working, reflect on your answers to questions 1-5 as you consider your next steps. Professional advice and guidance from a career counselor is also an option. For a list of professional career counselors, visit the website of the National Career Development Association (www.ncda.org).

For many people, crisis equals opportunity. During these turbulent times, when it comes to your career, this may be the time for you to take a risk, spread your wings, and soar!
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Career Inklings from Columbia

Time to Recharge
by Janet M. Ruck

As the weather on the east coast encourages me to turn inward, I can take this opportunity to regroup, recharge and reframe my focus on what comes next. There is definitely change in the air, certainly in the weather, but also in the atmosphere and in the environment. So much upheaval in the world, some days it’s difficult to look beyond what comforts me.

Mother Nature knows that it’s time to slow down and regroup. Today it is a cold, rainy, unpleasant day. But, it’s all in how I view it, isn’t it? The sales person in the department store called it “liquid sunshine” when I commented on how dreary the weather is. Forced inward, I welcome the respite from the day. There is so much to do to prepare me for the rest of my life.

On days like these, I can take the time to focus on myself. Sometimes it’s difficult to do so, because then I become aware that I have rushed through so many moments. My life has always been about doing, and about going. This time of year, and days like these are gifts in their reminders to slow down, to breathe and to reframe. Once I get used to it, I really can relax! I wonder why I fight it so? Read more!

Career Inklings from Columbia

Get Out of Your Shell to Find a New Career!

By Janet M. Ruck


Are you afraid to talk about yourself? Do interviews make you squirm? It can be difficult to speak positively about yourself and your accomplishments, especially if you’ve been taught that it’s “not nice to boast.” But to be a competitive, viable candidate for a new job or career during these difficult economic times, it is important that you get over your fear of bragging and develop some techniques for “tooting your own horn”.

In my work as a career counselor, I find that many of my clients shy away from applying for jobs because of their fear of interviewing. But, with some preparation, a few techniques to get over their shyness (which I call “fear of I-ness”) and practice, they are prepared to get out there and compete.

If you find yourself suffering from “fear of I-ness”, try this the next time you are called for an interview:

Before the Interview
- Research the employer
- Identify your talents and skills and relate them to the job
- Know your career-related interests and values
- List some accomplishments to answer the question: "Why should we hire you?"
- Develop a response to the statement: "Tell me about yourself"
- Anticipate and write out the answers to possible interview questions
- Practice interviewing (out loud) with someone who can coach you

During the Interview
- Get to the interview on time and with a positive attitude
- Dress appropriately, shake hands, smile, be yourself!
- Know what is in your resume, and bring an extra copy
- Be interested and confident
- Be able to articulate your skills

After the Interview
- Send a thank you note
- “Grade” yourself on your performance so you can learn for the next interview

Interviewing is a skill itself, and the more you practice, the better you’ll be. Don’t let your fear of I-ness keep you from coming out of your shell!
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Career Inklings from Columbia

Storm Clouds Ahead

Janet M. Ruck

Sometimes we need to pay attention to change before it befalls us. Ignoring the signs along the way can create havoc and disruption. Often we are blind to the signs because we are in our comfort zone, and we don’t want to consider the possibility that change can overtake our circumstances. We like where we are and we refuse to think about the fact that perhaps things will be changing.

In my work as a career counselor, I often see very capable individuals become overtaken by change, because they were unwilling to see the trends that were happening around them. They falsely believed that if they kept their heads down, did their work and ignored the environment around them, they’d weather the storm of job layoff or furlough. Working hard in this case was definitely not working smart. They focused myopically straight ahead, and didn’t look left or right. If they had, they would have seen the workplace changing right before them, and they could have prepared themselves for what was happening. Had they been proactive, by facing reality and preparing themselves, they might have been able to take charge of their situations. Instead, they found themselves in a position of being reactive, responding to the environment. They were in a defensive mode. Their careers and lives were turned upside down, and they found themselves in crisis. They had to dig out of a bad situation, with the resulting blows and bruises to their self-esteem and confidence.

Don’t let this happen to you. In these uncertain times, be on the lookout for signs that may be telling you that you need to get ready to make a change now. These are some steps that I have used with my clients to help them protect themselves:

1. Pay attention to trends in your industry, your organization;
2. Develop and maintain a professional identity;
3. Keep your skills updated;
4. Take calculated risks; seize opportunity!
5. Live, work and grow with passion;
6. Know and use your resources, and reciprocate.

If you pay attention, you may be able to minimize the upheaval and potential damage that an unexpected job loss can bring about.

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Career Inklings from Columbia

Show Your True Colors

By Janet M. Ruck

In my opinion, this is the best time of year on the East coast. The emerald foliage of summer has given way to the oranges, crimsons, golds of autumn, as Mother Nature clothes the world in technicolor. Dark, cool mornings obscure the promise of the color array which emerges as day unfolds. For me, this is a magical and majestic time. I feel reborn as I am treated to the many hues that the autumn equinox brings to life in the mid-Atlantic. Change is in the air, and the vibrant colors herald its arrival.

Perhaps this might be a good time to consider changes to your career or job. As a career counselor, I often see individuals who have fallen into a rut. They perform the same job, with the same tasks, day after day, year after year. They complain that they are bored, yet they are often fearful to make the change that will result in doing something more and better with their lives. By looking at their work with the same viewpoint, they find that they are unable to take the steps to make the change that will create new experiences. Yet, just as Mother Nature kisses a palette of many colors onto the trees in the forest, along the highways, and down each and every country road, so, too, are workers afforded the chance to manifest their many talents through their work.

Whether you spend your days behind a desk, at a bedside or on an assembly line, you can decide which of your attributes will color your work this day. Fall’s tribute to nature can provide a backdrop for your view of your work. Take a cue from Mother Nature to move toward the change that can give your career new vibrancy. Demonstrate your many talents, passions and skills, remembering that you get the chance to choose which colors you show the world. Shake off the doldrums and color your world with brightness and vibrancy. Make this the best season of your career!
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Career Inklings from Columbia

Becoming Who You Were Meant to Be

Janet M. Ruck

Does a green tomato know that one day it will become red and juicy, bursting with flavor and goodness? Can an azure blue robin’s egg know that in its time it will burst forth with the vibrancy of new life? Do we know what we are capable of becoming, if we but follow our instincts, use our talents and listen to our intuition?

All too often, it seems that we ignore the signs along the way on the road to reaching our potential. We take detours, undermine our instincts, and allow other voices to tell us the right path to take. We succumb to pressure from others, to conform, to obey, to do what they tell us is “right”.

In my work as a career counselor, I hear many adults lament the fact that they ignored their own calling, and pursued directions dictated by others. Certainly, many of these others were well-meaning and thought they were dispensing good advice. Parents thought they could spare their artist-striving children the agony of struggling and starving. Teachers were sure they were helping their students avert disappointment when they steered them away from their aspirations of a life of art or of writing or of music. These well-meaning adults, in their zeal to protect these children from distress, crushed their dreams, their passions and took away their meaning.

Sometimes, the lucky ones, the survivors, may discover later in life that they still have a painting or a novel or a symphony tucked away in the recesses of their souls. If they have the energy, they are able to break free from the ties that the adults in their lives bound their souls with so many years ago. The unlucky ones never look into their souls again, having been led away from the search for self so many years ago. Their painting or novel or symphony will never grace their lives or the lives of others.

If you still hear the murmur of the voice within, beckoning you to seek that self that has been tucked away, heed its call and let your voice be heard throughout the world. Your instincts and your talents are waiting to be unleashed, and the world needs what you have to offer.

Janet Ruck is as an escapee from the world of full-time work. As a career consultant and writer, she is consumed with helping people identify their passions, uniqueness, interests and talents to keep them from slipping into the faceless abyss of the workplace. Janet encourages herself and her clients through the use of journaling and creative self-expression as means of gaining perspective and insight into their authentic selves. She helps clients create and sustain satisfying careers by recognizing their own personal magic. Contact her at janetruck@yahoo.com.
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Career Inklings from Columbia

Mindful Meanderings
Janet M. Ruck

Some days, when I’m kayaking down an unfamiliar body of water, map in hand, I find that I’d rather enter a tributary that looks interesting, for whatever reason – foliage, birds, whatever. It’s often these forays into the unknown, into the unfamiliar that are the most satisfying and the most memorable. Despite my plan and my map, I am ready to take a chance on the unknown. I’ve come to call these mindful meanderings on my weekly kayaking journeys. Off the beaten track, they beckon me to follow them just this one time, and I’m never disappointed.

Perhaps this can be a technique for career exploration. With all the planning that we do, we may lose sight of opportunities ripe for the picking because we only look forward, not left or right. But it’s in the willingness to take a chance and to take action that we often find the most joy and satisfaction.

A theory of career development is that sometimes, as much as we’ve planned a career, it’s taking a step into the unknown that provides us with the most return for our effort. Called “happenstance” it takes the stance that we create our opportunities by taking action on our curiosity. By acting on chance events, we give ourselves a chance to transform unplanned events into career opportunity. Rather than waiting passively for something to happen, we take advantage of circumstances that create a synergy in which we make our own luck.

Not having all the information can cause us to fear going in a direction, or making a choice, or taking a stand. But sometimes it’s best to just take action, some kind of action, to loosen inertia’s grip on us.

And, when faced with so many choices, options and opportunities, fear can cause us to remain motionless. Action begets action. Taking the first step makes it possible to take all subsequent steps. Making a choice and a commitment to follow through can dislodge the fear and the muck that keeps us bound to our indecision.

To paraphrase the great Yogi Berra: “If you come to a fork in the road, take it.” Taking a chance and a stance in a direction, you’ve energized yourself and your journey for what lies around the bend. Especially if it’s another fork in the road.
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Career Inklings from Columbia

Bloom Where You’re Planted

Janet M. Ruck

Got choices? Life’s circumstances are often the result of a series of choices that we make with varying levels and amounts of information. What profession to choose, who will be our life partner, whether we’ll have children or not…these are decisions we make at certain times of our lives. Who knows if we would have made the same choices at another time or place? But, regardless of the path we choose or the choice we make, what we do with the result is entirely up to us. We always have the ability to make the best of our situation.

When I was young and faced with an outcome that wasn’t quite to my liking, my grandmother would tell me to “make the best of it.” I did not always appreciate this advice because it felt to me like a cop-out, a waiving of my ability to control my own destiny. It seemed to me like I was allowing circumstances, rather than me, to determine my choices.



But, reality being what it is and being a grandmother now myself, I can appreciate my grandmother’s wisdom. There are a lot of versions of her advice, but the one that resonates most with me is the expression: “Bloom where you’re planted.”

In other words, we could learn how to make the most of where we are now. We could flourish and grow, achieve our goals, reach our potential. We really only have this moment – how are we going to spend it? It’s our choice whether to “make the best of it” or to squander it with regrets and laments. This is so true in our careers and our jobs. Not having all the information possible or necessary to make a fully informed choice, we can find ourselves in situations that are not always ideal. Micro-managing bosses, gossiping coworkers, oppressive work environments are certainly not ideal conditions. Often, our situations, the outcomes of our decisions may not be of our own choosing, but the manner in which we handle them truly is. But, it is truly up to us to figure out what we can do to maintain our positive attitude, our present moment. In other words, how can we make the best of it? (Thanks, Grandma!).

Got a minute? Think about what you can do today to uplift your spirits, honor your values and bloom where you are now. The choice is yours and yours alone.

Janet Ruck is as an escapee from the world of full-time work. As a career consultant and writer, she is consumed with helping people identify their passions, uniqueness, interests and talents to keep them from slipping into the faceless abyss of the workplace. Janet encourages herself and her clients through the use of journaling and creative self-expression as means of gaining perspective and insight into their authentic selves. She helps clients create and sustain satisfying careers by recognizing their own personal magic. Contact her at janetruck@yahoo.com. Read more!