There was a blog called “In 3 words” that would pose a question and then ask people to submit their three word response. A typical question was: “What’s the last thing that made you want to tear your hair out? ” – which elicited responses like, ‘my older daughter’ and ‘bosses bad day’.
One of my favorite bloggers, Chris Brogan, took the concept and suggested that people use the idea to come up with 3 words that will be their guiding pillars for the year. Yes, I know it’s March, but it’s never too late to get a new lease on personal and professional growth. For 2011 — his 3 words are: package, reinvest, flow. Not inspiring to me personally but I’ll bet they are helping Chris focus. Here are some of the submissions this post elicited:
Smile, Fight, Create
JUICY SO WHAT? WORTHY
Get OUT There!
Challenge, Empower, Collaborate
Passion, Confidence, Balance
Pleasure, People, Publish, Practice (Louise can’t seem to follow rules!)
Integrity, Wisdom, Patience
My 3 words are: This One Day. My goal for 2011 is to conscious of the day, every day as I live it. That includes paying attention to my surroundings and the people I come in contact with as well as accomplishing my daily work. Looking forward to hearing about your 3 words.
There’s a new movie coming out called the Lemonade Movement. Lemonade Movie. I don’t know much about it except that I watched this video trailer for it and found it inspirational. The clip shows people who have lost their jobs who are now doing new, fun and fulfilling work. Not what they planned on… but much better. So I say, they’re doing it right. If you haven’t seen it yet, take a minute to watch this short video of people who lost their jobs and found themselves.
I’m just like these folks and many of you; I’m out there finding my way. I know that though there are many risks and a lot of uncertainty; there are also some very cool rewards. Each of us can find our way. That’s what makes it good. What’s even better is that we can stand by each other and offer encouragement. I hope you’ll take a minute today and encourage yourself and someone else.
And speaking of doing it right; if you don’t know or follow Chris Brogan, I suggest you check him out. Chris is the co-author of a terrific book call Trust Agents. Check out his book and blog and my favorite, his newsletter. He writes it like he’s talking just to me. He reminds me to help and promote others, not to take myself too seriously and to always do good work. I appreciate that because I know he is walking the walk.
You are on the verge of something something big. Let me know what it is…
When we lose our jobs, most of us go into ‘deer in the headlights’ mode. Even if we know it’s coming, we still freak out. For those of us who are actively managing the change; the emotional transition, while difficult, doesn’t slow us down.
For those who choose, and yes I use the word choose, to ignore the realities of the economy and our ability to earn a living; you will get no sympathy from me. Each of us is responsible for our own careers. Whatever has happened in the past, no matter how long you’ve worked for your current employer; you still need to face the facts. Employment security is a thing of the past.
After I was laid off, I made a decision to actively network with 5 to 10 people a week. When I would meet with a new contact, many of whom were employed, I would tell them how much I enjoyed looking for a new job. Their mouths would drop open. They simply could not understand how someone could enjoy what they considered to be an “ego-deflating”, “unnerving” and “unrewarding” process. I completely disagree that finding a new way to use my skills, learn new things and make a positive contribution to our society (oh yeah, and pay the bills) is unrewarding. It’s cool. So I suggest that people, no matter how unsettled you are, to get up and take action. If you’re not sure what to do, ask someone. Here’s some great advice from Chris Brogan on ‘getting on with it.’
I always believe (because it’s in my best interest to) that whatever I do next will be better than I could imagine. This isn’t just a Pollyanna attitude; it’s a way of living life. There’s a saying, “Fake it ‘til you make it.” Wise advice.
I don’t have to be certain of what the next phase of my life will be. I only have to believe that, whatever it is; it will be good. And it starts today. I don’t have one minute to waste on negative energy. What will it take for you to truly believe that job hunting is cool?
There was a blog called “In 3 words” that would pose a question and then ask people to submit their three word response. A typical question was: “What’s the last thing that made you want to tear your hair out? ” – which elicited responses like, ‘my older daughter’ and ‘bosses bad day’.
Life Transitions | Deborah | 
March 17, 2011 10:48 am | 
Comments (2) 
When we lose our jobs, most of us go into ‘deer in the headlights’ mode. Even if we know it’s coming, we still freak out. For those of us who are actively managing the change; the emotional transition, while difficult, doesn’t slow us down.
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