One of the first questions I ask a new client: Is this the way you thought your life would turn out? And surprisingly few thought they’d end up working in an office or a factory. Most dreamed of achieving more. How about you? Is this how you thought your life would turn out? Most of us have regrets and most of us would have done things differently, but it’s also true that we can still make our dreams come true no matter our age or financial situation.
Job Satisfaction (or Dissatisfaction) The most common complaint I hear is job dissatisfaction. My clients have plateaued, or worse, been laid off and are seeking guidance on what to do next. Well, think about it. What are the chances that a 55-year old executive is going to get hired? Slim and none. But that doesn’t mean these people are in dire straits. In fact, in many cases, this is the first time they’ve had the opportunity to chase that dream. However, who among us can throw the switch and move out of a paying gig to making it on our own? How long could you go without a paycheck? And how much capital do you have to start a new enterprise – one that allows you to transition out of a job that saps your spirit into a job that juices you up? Every day! When you work for yourself you don’t mind the long hours. You don’t mind the daily challenges and headaches. Why? You’re building something for yourself. The key is to find the means to transition from your unsatisfying job to your new job without missing a paycheck.
Search the Want Ads There are plenty of job sites to search – everything from Monster.com to Craigslist.com, which lists local job opportunities by zip code. No one has to know you’re looking for a new job until you actually land one. However, word of warning: don’t post a “looking for work” ad on Craigslist or any other site. You can imagine how happy your manager will be when she sees you’re looking for another job. You’ll be looking for your coat on the way out the door! The local newspaper is another resource for job listings. And if you’re willing (or eager) to relocate, be sure to check out the national newspapers like The New York Times. These big papers list job openings world-wide. London, anyone?
Gradually Build Your Own Business Would you rather work for a tyrant who steals your ideas in a job with no future, or would you rather detail cars? Frankly, even if you’ve got a Ph.D., most would choose to work for themselves than work for another business. Okay, so you start a car detailing business (just an example, but a good one) on weekends. Your start-up costs are nothing, you can do the work in your garage listening to your favorite tunes and you can do two cars a week-end for $125 apiece. Your only expense? The ad you run in the local rag. Or, how about this.
Use your current skills but sell them on an “as needed” basis. Virtual assistants are popular with small, growing businesses and individual freelancers and consultants. These professionals can work from home, they can type, enter data, perform bookkeeping – even buy gifts as a person shopper. Now, how do you advertise? One place to find these kinds of assignments is Elance.com. All you need is a computer, a high-speed dial-up and the skills to handle a variety of administrative tasks. As you build a regular client base and your earnings grow, eventually you can throw the switch and start your own on-line business. Imagine saying bye-bye to that morning crush of cars each day. The key is actually pretty simple: where are you today and where do you want to be tomorrow?
Determine what skills, experience, assets and resources are available and develop a simple plan that (1) allows you to keep bringing in a paycheck and (2) builds additional income and eventually equips you to transition from one job to a better job or move from one job to business ownership.
Is this how you thought your life would turn out? What’s your dream?
