Open your mind to so much more
Adult learning has been linked to improved mental health, fewer GP visits, and increased wellbeing, according to a research from the Department for Education. Additionally, several studies have shown that having a sense of purpose extends life and improves health. As we continue in our careers, we are undoubtedly going to want to change careers and will need to refresh our skills along the road. According to coach Helen McMillan, “the majority of us won’t retire at 60,” thus we must adopt the perspective of prolonged working lives. We cannot assume that a career path we may have chosen to pursue in our late teens would keep us employed for the next 50 or 60 years.
You are more employable if you have a passion for knowledge. Active learning was rated by the largest companies worldwide as the second most desired talent in the World Economic Forum’s “Future of Jobs” poll.
Learn for pleasure
Ask yourself the following questions to help you discover where your passions lie:
* When have you felt both powerful and at peace?
* What would you be doing if you knew you couldn’t fail?
* If you didn’t have to do a job for money, what would you do?
* Was there a work or college project that particularly absorbed you?
* What was it about the project that captivated you?
* What did you want to be when you grew up?
* What do you think other people come to you for?
* Write down five things you are good at in your life today
It worked for me
Helen McMillan felt uninspired and lifeless when she considered returning to teaching after delivering her third child. In theory, I had the ideal work for a family, but when I looked ahead, the tight structure of my position made me feel flat and confined. I didn’t want to spend the rest of my life as a teacher, but I had no idea what to do or how to alter things,’ she adds.
Helen eventually sought the advice of a career counselor. She admits, “I was first afraid and astonished at how difficult I found admitting that I didn’t know what I wanted to pursue.” Helen went through a career transition process with her coach, looking at choices that matched her interests, until she made the decision that she wanted to become a certified coach. “I really enjoy how it blends the abilities I have from teaching with a therapeutic foundation.” Although it wasn’t always simple and there were times when I wasn’t sure whether I had made the correct decision, I enjoyed learning new things and interacting with individuals from other backgrounds.
Helen operates her own company advising businesses and people now, feeling in charge and content.
