Problems and Solutions: The Power to Make a Choice
As a career coach, I work primarily with mid-career professionals who are ready for some “next step” in their career - a promotion, a career pivot, a salary increase, a new role, winding down to retirement, improving their skills in a particular area, or being recognized in their field as a true leader.
Often, the reason they have come to me is because they are stuck or challenged in some way with the actions required. And this causes a problem for them.
One of the greatest gifts I provide to my clients as a career coach is to empower them to see that their problems have solutions, and THEY possess the freedom to make choices to see it this way and explore the options.
No matter the depth of the challenge you are facing in your career, all of us always - always! - have options. Even if we don't love those options, we still have the freedom to choose one now, the ability to move forward without judgment, and the relief of having made a choice instead of festering where we were in that “stuck-ness” loop.
Many of my clients have sought coaching because they are faced with challenges related to making a career pivot into a new arena altogether. They are caught in the spinning vortex of “Where do I start?” thoughts, doubt, and anxiety. They see an unclimbable mountain when it is more like a small hill if they break their process down into realistic chunks. For an example of a thought process related to this specific type of problem, I recommend reading this Forbes article on “Five Common Career Change Challenges (and How to Conquer Them.”
What’s really the problem with problems??
“If I had an hour to solve a problem, I’d spend 55 minutes thinking about the problem and five minutes thinking about solutions.”
Albert Einstein
Where does our resistance and hesitation come from? It can come from subconscious thoughts about past experiences, imposter syndrome, comparison, fear of the unknown, and a plethora of other obstacles.
But almost all problems have solutions and can be reframed to be opportunities. The word “choice” is a noun, but the act of choosing is a verb, or an action. With the right mindset, you can gain momentum, take action, and feel confident in your ability to choose a strategic solution.
Maintaining this action-based mindset requires some training, and working on that alone can be tumultuous.
What actions can you take to move forward?
So how can you train yourself to keep that mindset front and center or at least more easily accessible when you're consumed with a problem or challenge? Here are just a few things I have found successful when coaching my clients into action:
Have some sort of visual reminder. I personally have a two-sided stone, with one side that says “problem,” and the other side says “solution” that I always keep at my desk. I have had clients have an inspirational quote on an index card taped to their computer screen or bathroom mirror. Whatever works for you.
Step away for a few minutes, hours, or days, depending on how much time you need: As long as you have a clear plan for getting back to making that choice. If a thought or idea comes to you, capture it on your phone or a Post-it, but you do not have to deal with it right then and there.
Set aside time for reflection. Some choices are months in the making. And that’s okay - if you are deliberately making time to focus on your challenge and actively reflect on it. Perhaps use a journal to capture your thoughts and ideas.
Brainstorm independently or better yet, with someone else such as a colleague, manager, friend, or family member, to:
● Come up with solution options.
● Evaluate those options by asking yourself some tough questions.
● Then CHOOSE one of them on which to ACT!
The tricky part of brainstorming with someone you know well is their already-formed opinion of you and what they see you being capable of. As a coach, part of my job is to be unbiased, but also to bring objectivity - and tough questions - which your loved ones might not feel comfortable doing.
Looking for some extra support?
If you are struggling to take action and make a choice related to the career “problems” you are experiencing, I can help you see outside of the very box you feel chained to by getting you to see the OPPORTUNITY of what’s out there waiting for you. Using curiosity as a tool, we will explore ideas and options you might not otherwise have thought about. We will keep revisiting your why - the driving factor in reaching the next level in your career.
I would love the opportunity to help you solve your career problems. Let’s schedule a time to talk about how you can take your next step toward career success. Discovery calls with me are always complimentary! Click here to schedule.