Take charge!

People I see through my work are often not clear about what they have to offer and not sure whether it's valued. Granted, sometimes it's hard to figure those things out when you've had a lifetime's experience of believing a whole bunch of myths about work. For example: 'You can't be both happy and successful in work'; 'No-one genuinely likes successful people'; 'Work is a drag, and the only reason we do it is to fund an enjoyable leisure time'.

Whenever I read about William Morris, founder of the Arts and Crafts Movement, I'm in awe of the way he expressed himself through work. Last week I read him described as 'poet, designer, craftsman and radical socialist' - all those! And all true!  But my first thought was 'They've forgotten painter, architect, historian and lay preacher!'  This man knew he had gifts and invoked tremendous energy to express them, even when he wasn't sure quite where it would take him or whether he was likely to be successful. 'Work', he said 'is the embodiment of my dreams'.

I believe that it's within each of us to find work which gives expression to our unique gifts. The process takes time, learning, challenge and a preparedness to ditch the myths we've grown up with, but the difference it makes to dragging yourself out of bed for another dreary day at work or leaping out, eager to contribute in a way which doesn't actually feel like work, is tremendous.

So, where to begin?

I'm a great believer in using energy as a guide. In that first conversation which I have with clients, it doesn't take long to see where their energy is going. Consider what energises you. It may be aspects of your work or leisure, or something which you haven't done for years. Observe how you feel when you think about aspects of work and leisure pursuits. Then dig down to think about what about it energises you. Is it connection with people? Using a particular skill? Being able to help others?

Nick Williams, in his excellent book 'Unconditional Success' says, 'we need to be curious about who we can become and what we can achieve, and let our work be the vehicle for the satisfaction of our curiosity.'

So, get curious! Use these questions as a focus:

- How would I describe myself and what I have to contribute?

- How far does my current job reflect that?

- What energises me and what drains me of energy?

- What are the work myths which I embrace?

-  What do I want to be known for?

- If I knew that I couldn't fail in my work, what is it that I would do?

- What am I afraid of?