Sun, sand, sangria and a new career?
Every summer thousands of Brits leave their desks for two weeks in the sun, but for many, work is still at the back of their mind, especially if they are stuck in a rut or unhappy in their work.
According to leading career coach and author of ‘The Career Itch’, Grace Owen (grace-owen.com), holidays are one of the most important periods for people reflecting on their careers and making some life changing decisions.
In her new book she has identified an inner restlessness or what she has called ‘the Career Itch’ that people often feel in their work lives about the direction of their careers, whether they are overworked, stuck in a rut, confused about where they are headed or simply looking for that elusive work-life balance.
“The start of the New Year is often the time when people think about changing aspects of their lives including their careers after experiencing ‘the career itch’, but as we head into summer many have not had the time or inclination to do anything about.
“The annual two week holiday gives workers plenty of time to listen to their inner restlessness about the direction of their career and really think about what they can do to improve their situation. Simply having that time away from their desks can make a big difference with people returning with lots of energy and enthusiasm to make positive changes in their career.”
Grace Owen experienced the career itch herself and the last 10 years have been a journey of discovery that enabled her to take control of what she did next in her career and ultimately led to her becoming a career coach. Grace has helped many of her clients to successfully navigate The Career Itch process and equipped hundreds of leaders, managers and professionals, freelancers and business owners to excel in their work.
‘The Career Itch’ offers advice, encouragement and hope to the many people that are unhappy at work and explains how by paying attention to this inner restlessness you can start to take control of what you do next. The book is easily read in a couple of days and with lots of practical advice and exercises to complete – it’s an ideal tool to take on holiday for anyone experiencing the career itch.
The new book focuses on the four key steps that Grace has identified based on the acronym ITCH, these are:
Identity: Knowing who you are
If you don’t know who you are, then you won’t know what you want. This first step is about discovering your personality, talents (yes, you do have some!), transferable skills and values and finding out how these relate to your career.
Thinking: Clarifying what you do next
Uncovering any limiting beliefs that may be subconsciously holding you back is essential. You can then focus on your aspirations (dream big!) and your needs (practical things like money). That will set you up to consider your options (employee, going it alone or the best of both).
Change: Making a successful transition
This can be the scariest part of the process but understanding the career itch change cycle and the feelings you are likely to experience will reassure and sustain you. Preparation and an effective exit strategy will set you on your way.
Habit: Achieving a balanced lifestyle
This is about so much more than leaving work on time, getting home to put the kids to bed or taking up a new hobby. It involves looking at your working habits in detail and putting your career into the context of your whole life.
Pack a copy of ‘The Career Itch’ in your suitcase this year and spend a few minutes each day, whilst you are in a relaxed frame of mind to work through the book. You never know you could come back with the inspiration to take control of your career and make some positive steps to changing your work situation for the better.
The book can be ordered online for £9.99 at thecareeritch.co.uk and 10% of book proceeds will be given to Aids Orphans charities.
