I was talking with one of my clients about his frustrations with a new employer. There’s a lot he has been able to do in the new role. He has built a team and team culture that he is proud of. He is beginning to see some changes in the broader organization due to his efforts.
But there are still a lot of frustrations with things that he doesn’t feel like he can change.
When I asked him what the “wrong reasons” were, he was pretty clear with me–
Money.
Stability and security.
Not having to make another move.
Having enough for college for the kids, his own retirement, and some extra just to do fun things with.
When I asked him with the “right reasons” were, he was at a bit of a loss.
He doesn’t know what he actually wants. He knows he likes building a team. He likes winning. He likes a lot of the relationships he has built.
But other than that, he seemed to be at a loss. Happy with how the organization has treated him, frustrated that he is not yet making the impact that he would like. Feeling like a bit of a loser while the organization seems to see him as a winner.
Now it could be that for you, money and security are the right reasons. It could be those are the right reasons for him, and he just hasn’t realized it yet. It could be that something else will emerge, something related to his desire to have an impact, or something else entirely.
But the biggest question that most of my clients struggle with is, “What do I want?”
Not what is expected of me.
Not what will make me look good.
But what do I actually want?
Just because I want it?
When you are able to see that, and create from that place, everything will change for you.
What do you want? Just because you want it?
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