possibility…

What are you doing in 10 minutes? I’d ask what you’re doing right this minute, but I know that you’re reading my blog posting. What will you do with the rest of your day? Tomorrow? Why do I ask? Because most of us sail along from moment to moment, day to day, without being aware of a purpose or focus for the hours as they whiz by. Most of us have goals for our lives, our career, or for the year perhaps, but how often are you aware of the moment?

These thoughts are on my mind because we’re beginning a new month in a new year. I’m also thinking about my goals and living my values because of the FutureStory 2008 project. Participants have been sharing their New Year’s resolution “word” and we’ve been discussing the challenges associated with “living in the moment” in a world that bombards us with information, responsibilities, and demands faster than we can blink. Sometimes, the challenge is simply “how to choose” when we have so many options. And too often we “choose” one more thing to do, commit to, engage in–when what we really need is time to think, reflect, and plan.

For many of us, our work–our career–consumes most of our time and energy. When we’re just beginning, we gladly focus on the job. As time passes and we become seasoned and competent in our field, we can relax our focus and spend more time enjoying other aspects of our lives. At least, that’s what many of us hope.

“The experts” say that we will experience between three and five major career changes in our lifetime. Some suggest between three and eleven! The point is, just when we think we’ve “got it,” and can ease up on the intensity of our work focus, it’s time to change lanes. If you’re in mid-life and experiencing either a self-initiated or an imposed career change, it can feel as if the world is crumbling around you!

“Living in the moment” can’t protect you from the upheaval of career change. But it can help you recognize and enjoy the things that bring you pleasure and contentment. The ability to filter the incessant white noise of today’s world and to appreciate the beauty of “now” may ironically be a catalyst for your career change. Whatever your career path, our lives are made of a stream “moments” and recognizing and pursuing the most rewarding way to “live in them” is, in my experience, far more satisfying that “living for the future.”

If you are anticipating or are in the midst of mid-life career change and are willing to share your story, please contact me. I am developing a profile of survival tips and techniques and would love to hear about your experience.