There are many reasons we find ourselves re-evaluating our life. There maybe tangible reasons which have forced us into an unforeseeable crossroads situation, such as a bereavement, illness or redundancy. There are also intangible reasons which leave us with a sense of unfulfilment but we can’t quite put our finger on why, such as a lack of life purpose, unsatisfied with life, or experiencing lack of sense of self. 

1. Determine what you want from your future life: Think about your future. What do you want to achieve in the next 5-10 years? For example you might want to have children, have a year out to travel, get onto the property ladder, or work in a career you feel passionate about with better prospects.

1. Re-evaluate your current situation: What elements or situations in your life are currently preventing you to achieve your desired future?  Are your daily, weekly, and monthly activities helping you move closer to your desired plans? 

1. Be true to yourself and happiness will follow:  What do you value in your life? Do you find you live by your values, or do you feel you are always striving to meet others expectations? What can you do to ensure you live a life that matches your personal values and passions?

1. Tap into your natural talents: Utilising your personality strengths, skills, and talents will ensure you shine as an individual. You will increase your confidence and feel fulfilled and happy in your life. You may also increase the likelihood of being positively recognised by your employer. Take time to consider your natural (but sometimes hidden) talents. Think about key achievements and hobbies you enjoy; what skills do you use when carrying out these activities?

1.  Get inspired: Create a collage of all the positive elements in your life. As you research add things that inspire you. They could be hobbies or activities you would like to try, or values and passions you have (maybe a charity you fund raise for, your children, or even something you do to help the environment). Let yourself free and be creative with your ideas. Try exploring your ideas further and begin to build a mind map of life inspiration.

1. Think outside the box: Explore the obvious options, and research further to make other related options apparent. The most obvious solution may not be the most suitable, but a subsequent related option may be perfect.

1. Space to think:  Once you have researched and discovered your options, give yourself time for the information to sink in and spend some time thinking them through. Take ‘time out’; anything from a walk in the park, soak in the bath or even a holiday will help you mull over the issues. It won’t be long before the best solution comes to the forefront of your mind.

1. The power of positive thinking: What thought processes are holding you back from reaching your life and career goals? The first step is to identify the things you are telling yourself that are stopping you from making that first step.  E.g. “I am too old to change”, I am too inexperienced to apply for that role” or “I don’t know the first thing about running my own business it would fail immediately. Then replace these thoughts with a positive and strong affirmation (a positive predefined saying or mantra that makes you feel good and increases your optimism). In addition research shows people who are optimistic about the future can live longer.

1. How, What, Where and When: Once you have decided what direction you want to head in, write a SMART goal plan that you can follow. Remember to stay motivated to your end goal.

1. Turn procrastination into action:  So if after considering this 10 step approach you are still making excuses, ask yourself what these excuses could be masking. What worries and fears do you have about making the changes you have identified? Take each concern and tackle it proactively. What can you do to reduce the likelihood that the risk you have identified will materialise?

For more information about 'My Dream Career' coaching programme please contact me emmawhite@lifes-abreeze.co.uk alternatively visit my website at www.lifes-abreeze.co.uk