What we tell ourselves about our careers
See and tell differently...
Our careers are not just paths we tread; they are narratives we create and maintain, stories we tell ourselves about who we are and where we're headed. These narratives shape our perceptions, decisions, and, ultimately, fulfillment in our professional lives. While the narratives are endless, there are some major thinking patterns we usually tap into. Our families, friends, professional networks, universities, and more influence these narratives, too.
One narrative is the "linear progression". We often tell ourselves that success means climbing the ladder in a straight line, moving steadily upward with each step. However, reality could be different. Our paths will be filled with twists and turns—a setback leading to introspection, a lateral move to a different department, and a leap into entrepreneurship that may totally redefine the notion of progress. We may also move to another country and start over, change the path, and more.
Then there's the "destiny" narrative, where we believe our career paths are predetermined as if guided by a grand plan. This narrative can be limiting, as it overlooks the power of choice in shaping our professional lives. A classic example of this is following your family's line of work without questioning whether you want to do it— becoming a doctor because four generations in your family have been doctors.
Another narrative is the "success at all costs" story, in which we measure our worth by only external markers of success—titles, salaries and awards. This narrative can lead to burnout if we neglect our well-being, values, and relationships along the way.
In contrast, there is the "growth and learning" narrative that emphasizes the journey over the destination, viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth and change as a constant companion. Think of us who have been through COVID, an unstable job market, and the development of Artificial Intelligence.
The linear career progression may only be possible for some. Our solution can be to embrace challenges as chances to learn, pivot, and evolve. The reality is always different. We still have a chance for a career filled with resilience and adaptability.
As we reflect on these narratives, let’s think about the stories we tell ourselves about our careers and their impact on our mindset, choices, and well-being.
What if we viewed our careers as dynamic narratives shaped by our choices, experiences, and continuous growth?
I am a huge fan of Rick Rubin's new book, "The Creative Act: A Way of Being". It helps me keep creativity in the essence of my work and my career. He has the following words that I want to leave you with if you made it this long through this post:
We have stories about ourselves,
And those are not who we are.
We have stories about the work,
And those are not what the work is.
- Rick Rubin
What stories are you telling yourself about your career? Are they empowering or limiting? How can you rewrite your narrative to embrace growth and fulfillment?
What if we challenge the narratives that no longer serve us and craft stories that inspire, empower, and reflect the unique journeys we're meant to embark on?
Bonus - Reflection exercise
Here is a helpful exercise to reflect on your career and finding ways to improve it:
1. Current narrative: Start by writing down the story you tell yourself about your career. Include your beliefs about success, progression, and fulfillment.
e.g. "I believe that success in my career is measured by promotions and salary increases. Progression only means climbing the corporate ladder, and fulfillment comes from achieving recognition and status."
2. Identity-limiting beliefs: Highlight any beliefs and assumptions that limit your growth or cause unnecessary stress.
e.g. "I constantly compare myself to others and feel inadequate when I see their achievements. I believe that I must work longer hours and sacrifice personal time to succeed, leading to constant stress and burnout."
3. Rewrite your narrative: Brainstorm alternative ways to tell your career story that align with your values, goals, and aspirations. Focus on empowerment and learning.
e.g. "I define success as continuous learning and growth, not just promotions. Progression means expanding my skills and making meaningful contributions. Fulfillment comes from finding purpose and balance in my work, aligning with my values and passions."
4. Action steps: List concrete actions that you can take to start living out your revised narrative. This could include seeking new opportunities, embracing challenges, or prioritizing self-care. I will also seek projects that align with my values and provide opportunities for meaningful contributions.
e.g. "I will prioritize learning opportunities, such as workshops or online courses, to develop new skills. I will set boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance and practice self-care regularly. I will also seek projects that align with my values and provide opportunities for meaningful contributions."
5. Reflection: Periodically revisit your rewritten narrative and assess how it's impacting your mindset, decisions, and overall satisfaction in your career journey. Adjust it as needed to stay aligned with your evolving goals and values.
Current narrative: "I must work non-stop to succeed; any gap is a failure."
New narrative: "Gaps in my resume represent times of growth, self-care, and strategic planning. I will choose opportunities that align with my values and goals. I will be selective, sometimes pausing to reflect and recharge."
Any narrative is just a structured framework; you can use it as an inspiration, but you are always free to explore more than your industry's "best practices" nudge you.
Shape your career on your own terms.
Let’s keep the conversation going. Send me your career and learning thoughts, questions, comments. Help me stay inspired to write more.