Passion & Purpose: Taking Charge of Your Professional Path…It’s on You! by Sheila Harris

Years ago, I remember having a conversation with a colleague concerning our careers. It stemmed from being frustrated with not seeing certain things happen. However, she brought up a point that stuck with me. It’s the fact that we’re the ones responsible for handling our own career trajectory—no one else.

It struck me at first, but then it made sense.
Of course, it’s helpful when you have someone who’s helping to propel your career, especially in the corporate world. But what happens when you don’t? How do you take control of your own professional path? The first step? Make sure it passes the “Passion + Purpose” test.

You want a role that aligns with your passions. That means that you would even do it free. You are aligned with the brand’s mission and it shows in everything you do. When you’re passionate, you will push past the tedious parts of the role, because you know that it leads to a bigger vision.

Next, it must be attached to your purpose. You want to make sure that you’re working with a goal in mind. You have a unique assignment that will impact others, and it’s important to keep that in mind as you go after it.

So, let’s say the role that you’re in passes these criteria. That’s the ideal. However, we may have to make shifts in our careers in order to get this place. This can be the case in any leadership or organizational setting.

You may ask why I am focusing on these two criteria so much. That is because when you don’t have passion or purpose in what you do…it shows. Are you easily annoyed, frustrated, anxious, or even too comfortable in that position? At one point, that job gave you joy. Now, it’s an effort to even think about being there. That’s not good. So…now what?

As you carefully begin to take steps toward your next shift, I want you to first envision what you want your future to look like. You need to know that this process will not be overnight. But that’s O.K., because you’re building the foundation to your dream…so take your time! In addition, you want to invest in #TeamYou. If you’re about to shift, you want the best version of you to show up. Learn a new skill or obtain another degree online—one course may take your life into a whole new direction. Look at other cities or work remotely. Offer your services as a consultant. Don’t ever limit yourself!

Again, your professional path is up to you. If you know that it’s time to make a move, then get ready now. Preparing for your next shift may not be easy…but it will be worth it in the end!

Sheila Harris is a speaker/coach/publicist. She is also the author of Calling Revealed: 7 Spiritual Lessons to Uncover Your Purpose, where she talks about the importance of identifying your passion + purpose, determining if you’re really ready for a shift in your life and more. Follow her @Sistasheilasays.