Start with your ‘Why’
Whether making a significant choice, transition or decision, or when simply reflecting on your life journey, the single most important question to ask yourself should unapologetically remain….what is my Why?
This doesn’t simply mean ‘why am I choosing this path’, but a far deeper inquisition into who you are, what makes you tick, what your values and character strengths are. Be curious about what led you to this point and what continues to drive you perhaps into a field of work, or lifestyle that you are considering, or to continually show up for whatever you do day after day in the precious time that you have.
This is by no means limited to the career context but it is significantly aligned. Not only is this question imperative for early careers, it is a powerful theme too often forgotten by those long established in any career. This is perhaps no more evident than in the long standing institution of the police force. I have worked closely with different ranks of the police, across county forces and London’s Metropolitan Police. There is no more evident contrast between those that know their Why and those whom it has eluded.
From your first week in the job to your last day of a 30 year career, this question holds the key to a plethora of themes; job satisfaction, personal resilience, performance, wellbeing and the list goes on. As a coach at Police Now, I spent 2 hours with every new police officer exploring identity, self-awareness and motivations around career choice. This absolutely included the opinions of and response to others, particularly in relation to the families and friends of ethnically diverse or under represented individuals and groups representing the diverse communities they serve.
Taking time to explore your Why should be the foundation of any path forwards.
Ask yourself…
What is your Why?
Are you a reflection of the person you want to be?
How do you serve your community?
What might be your next move?
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