You know, hindsight really is 20/20. Looking back on my journey from professional dancer to career strategist, I can't help but marvel at the unexpected twists and turns. So, I thought I'd share some of the wisdom I've gained along the way.
Trust me, these lessons are gold – they're the same ones I teach clients.
But first, let me give you a quick rundown of my career rollercoaster:
- In 2016, I hung up my dance shoes and leapt into the world of career development.
- Within a year, I'd doubled my income. (Cha-ching!)
- I've penned over 100 career and business articles for major publications. (My fingers are still recovering.)
- Climbed the corporate ladder like a boss – 6 promotions in 5 years, going from career coach to VP of Programs. (And 5X-ed my income, because why not?)
- Led the development of a digital career product for 300,000+ professionals. (No pressure, right?)
- Hired dozens of professionals and built global teams. (I've seen more resumes than I care to count.)
- Supported thousands of professionals through their own career transitions. (This one's my favorite – nothing beats seeing someone's face light up when they land their dream job!)
Now, onto the good stuff. Here are three powerful lessons I've learned about transforming my career and income:
Lesson #1: Brace Yourself for the Mind Trash
Picture this: You're excited about your new career path, ready to conquer the world, and then... BAM! Your brain decides to throw a party, and everyone's invited – doubt, confusion, and our old friend, imposter syndrome.
When I first stepped away from dance, I was blindsided by a full-on identity crisis. I mean, how could anything compare to the thrill of performing? But here's the thing – it's totally normal. Your brain is just trying to protect you from the unknown.
And over the years, I’ve learned a few ways to kick my mind trash to the curb where it belongs. So now, I’ve got a whole toolkit. Because let's face it, the last thing you need when you're trying to level up is your own mind playing tricks on you.
Lesson #2: Play to Your Strengths (It's Not Cheating, It's Smart)
Ever feel like you're just throwing spaghetti at the wall, hoping something will stick? Yeah, been there, done that. I spent nearly a year post-dance career floundering around, trying to figure out my next move.
The game-changer? Getting crystal clear on my strengths and interests.
Once I did that, I landed an opportunity that got me excited to leap out of bed in the morning (and paid me what I wanted – bonus).
That's why I’m a firm believer in starting any career pivot with strengths assessments and career reflections. It's like using a GPS instead of wandering around hoping to stumble upon your destination. Trust me, it's a much quicker (and less frustrating) route to career fulfillment.
Lesson #3: You Get What You Accept (So Aim High, Baby!)
Okay, this one's a tough pill to swallow, but here goes: If you're not where you want to be in your career, it might be because you've been settling for less than you deserve.
Ouch, right?
I had to learn this the hard way. I realized I was the one short-changing myself, not anyone else.
So I’ve learned to focus on the facts. Recalling a few of the ways you’ve made an impact as well as your accomplishments sets the stage for you to confidently command the type of work, clients, and income you deserve. #period
So there you have it — three powerful lessons from my own career transition journey.
Remember, changing careers is more than just switching job titles. It's about growth, self-discovery, and yes, facing a few challenges along the way.
But here's the thing – you've got this. So give yourself permission to dream big, play to your strengths, and never settle for less than you deserve.
Your future self will thank you, trust.
