It is fall in New England – my favorite time of the year, indicative of change.  The air is suddenly getting clear and crisp, the squirrels are busy burying their nuts, and the leaves are turning colors to the most vibrant tones of yellow, orange, red, and brown.  Observing these changes in nature reminds us that there is a natural rhythm to everything in life, including our careers.  

As we grow older and wiser, we experience a shift in our mindset, personal goals, and values that inspires a change. Two years ago, I recognized that my work as a corporate executive was no longer in alignment with my values. So, I invested in myself and began a new career as a professional coach. Such a drastic change late in one’s career can be scary and requires courage. 

If you find yourself at a crossroads in your career and you desire to be more in alignment with your values and goals, whether it is a promotion, a change in function or industry, going into business for yourself, or even retirement and you need a little extra courage to prepare, these 10 insights from my career that spanned 25+ years in the corporate world might set you up for success and prepare you for the seasons to come:

1. Develop a growth mindset and learn as much as you can throughout your life
2. Become clear on your values and do not compromise them to appease an employer
3. Seek the Truth and embrace perspectives.  Know the difference between the two
4. Practice acceptance and how to move on quickly from setbacks or disappointment
5. Be open to feedback to increase your level of self-awareness and impact on others
6. Don’t take anything personally
7. Be authentic!  There is only one of you in this entire universe.  Find your gifts and share them generously
8. Connect with others and find commonalities so that you can support one another
9. Stay grounded – no job is worth a burnout
10. And the final one, which was a piece of advice a wise woman gave me, do not let anyone or anything get in the way of fulfilling your dreams!

I would like to conclude with a quote by Jim Rohn: Life and business are like the changing seasons.  You cannot change the seasons, but you can change yourself. Therein lies the opportunity to live an extraordinary life, and the opportunity to change yourself.  

If you need help finding the courage to change yourself and live an extraordinary life, reach out to me at angela@belladonnacareercoach.com.