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Take charge of your career.
“I’m at a crossroads. How do I sort out my next move?” This statement is the one most frequently raised by my individual clients as they initiate the process of rethinking their work. They are really asking, Who do I want to become? What do I truly want to do with my precious time? How do I become better at my job, prouder of my career, and more of a contributor to this planet?
Rethinking Work is based on years of practical experience, updated research, and tailored to your individual needs. You begin with seven questions that compose a mini-autobiography, found below, that will require that you write about your experience and desires. Our first session would focus on discussing your answers to these questions, related insights, and future planning.
The Rethinking Work® Process Includes:
Pre-Session Questions
Four or Eight 75-minute sessions depending upon your needs
Customized assignments
Consultation between sessions for clarification
Rethinking Work Outcomes:
Compelling clarity and the ability to represent your authentic self in securing your next goal. Possibilities include, that you will create and/or land a job that represents your growth, enhance and reconfigure your work, become more confident and advance in your company, or find an entrepreneurial partnership and/or opportunity. Even though the emphasis is on work, life issues and goals are considered. Everyone learns to become a more resourceful and positive “partner” in the marketplace, not simply a job seeker.
Pre-session Questions
Review these questions. Your answers will clarify and organize your thoughts.
- Would you write about your history?
- What has worked (actions, beliefs, skills) for you in the present? In the past?
- What is most challenging--pressing--to you now?
- What do you want less of in life? What do you want more of in life?
- What do you enjoy or love doing inside and outside of work?
- Would you write down some words (busy, hopeful, fearful, impatient, boring, confusing) and phrases (can't seem to relax, itching to do something else, enjoy time alone, like my hobbies) that describe you and your life now and in the recent past?
- What would you like to accomplish? If you progressed toward a more rewarding job or career, what would that mean to your life?
Client Examples
Jack, 58-year-old manager: “I have no intention of retiring anytime soon. I need to make a contribution to this planet first, and I want to figure out what that contribution will be.”
When Yael turned 35: “I asked myself how I felt and the answer was grim. Over the past few years, I’ve accepted any reasonable job that came along. Reasonable is not joyful. I’ve come to the conclusion that I’m the only one who can define my interests and then find the work that I love.”
Russell at 45: “I’ve earned three prestigious degrees and have worked with some noteworthy companies including Microsoft and IBM. Despite my success, I have a big hole in me. I’m looking good on paper, but missing a true connection—ownership—to my work. I’m scared though, what if I can’t build the bridge between meaning and money? I’ve got two kids to send to college.”
Gabriel, management consultant: “My clients tell me that I’m a talented, skillful, and compassionate. Despite this profile, I feel frustrated by the slow pace of my business, heading now into my sixth year. How could I be in this fix? I’m the one that is supposed to be coaching others. I’m in my mid-fifties and feel the need to press forward. If not now, when? My desire is to do meaningful work and generate a reasonable, steady income.”
Pilar, 43-year-old business owner: “I want to answer the question, How much money do I really need to feel secure and do creative work? My answer will help me to take back my time,” she said, “and do the kind of work that challenges me to grow personally as well as give to others.”
Clayton, securities trader: “I have been a fixed-income securities trader for seven years and came into this job by luck. I’ve worked hard, and my efforts have paid off, but I’m feeling that my work chose me, I didn’t choose it. Now I want to choose—figure out how I can transform my current situation into something entrepreneurial that will give me purpose and tap into more of my creativity. I enjoy analyzing things and improving processes. I love to teach, and love investments and cooking. Could we incorporate all of these into my next career move?”RETHINKING WORK FOR YOU
Contact Cliff Hakim: cliff@rethinkingwork.com or 617.661.1250 to discuss your specific situation. Fee paid by the individual.
Cliff, I wanted you to be among the first to know. I got a call from the dean at B.U. earlier this afternoon. He made me an offer, and I accepted. So starting in the fall, I will be the director of the photojournalism program at Boston University. I can't tell you how excited I am about this.
Thank you for all you have done for me and for all you continue to do. I've learned so much and come so far, and it wouldn't have happened this way without your contribution.
Peter Southwick
Professor, and award-winning events photographer
southwickphoto.com
Thank you for helping me choose a road less traveled.
Denise Konicek
Denise Konicek Tiling
You have a unique ability to see through the fog, and you guide with patience and understanding.
Robin Hamilton
Project Manager