Expect Success

Inspiring Principles from the Book “Gandhi CEO” by Alan Axelrod

By Sandy Prock M.Ed., JCTC, Co-Owner of www.ExpertResume.com

“I must not contemplate darkness before it stares me in the face.” (“Independence”, Jarijan, July 28,1946) (Page 39 – Gandhi CEO)

If you lost your job or you are currently unhappy in your job, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. All of your feelings are valuable, even feelings that we sometime label negative. After you honestly feel your natural and real feelings, consider the path of “expecting the best.”

The best attitude to face any change, including life’s big surprises is to expect success, coupled with problem solving and strategizing. It is never wise to put your head in the sand and ignore reality. However, reality can take on your own personal hue. Statistics do not create your reality. They are an indication of others experiences. Your reality is what is real to you! If you feel bleak and dark, then that is your reality, it is not good to deny it – be with your truth, and it will serve you.  Your reality can also be a journey filled with joy, verve, life, possibilities and lots of colors and opportunities to learn and grow. Be with that truth too, no matter what the newspapers or statistics say. If you feel gloom for too long, please seek professional help. This is a sign of strength.

I cannot think of anyone, even young people who have not faced different forms of tragedy or challenging periods in their lives. I can think of many ways people approach their challenges.

Gandhi’s refusal to think about “darkness” “before it stares me in the face” is the perfect example of how one man bravely chose to handle life’s inevitable difficulties and challenges. Know that you are not alone. We all face our own personal difficulties. Resilience can be a learned skill. Part of becoming resilient is to see the good in your life. Be open to learning the lesson buried in your problems. They often unveil a joy waiting for you to claim - Maybe even new and better opportunities to explore. This is not putting your head in the sand, or a Pollyanna point of view. It is the point of view of choosing to see the good in your life, in every circumstance. Sometimes our greatest gifts come wrapped in unusual packages, that sometimes at first glance, look negative.

If you can see no good, consider finding someone who can see your islands of health. Your natural joy reveals your "islands of health." You may just need some thoughtful eyes to help you see. Ask a trusted friend or family member to point out to you when you light up. Then look closely. What is it that makes you light up? What do you speak about with joy and energy? Look deeply. Whatever it is, discover ways to incorporate more of your joy in your work or your life.

Consider starting with your own reflections.

• Evaluate your work history, your overall life experiences, including hobbies or maybe long forgotten dreams and desires

• Find the parts of your job or life that made your soul sing

• Notice when you felt most alive – these are clues to your deeper desires and natural talents

• Study job search strategies

• Remember job search can be a learned skill

• Surf the Internet and go on a treasure hunt

• Find your new job

• Check out www.Indeed.com for jobs pulled from many sources on the Internet. Be surprised at how many jobs are waiting and available.

Make sure that when you are ready to jump into your job search your resume, cover letter and other job search documents are the best they can be. This is not a time to short change yourself! Give yourself the best and expect the best!

Bob and I wish you the best in your job search. If you have any questions about your resume, cover letter or other job search documents, please feel free to call Bob.

Sandy Prock M.Ed. (Masters Degree in Education-Vocational Guidance and Counseling), JCTC (Job and Career Transition Coach), Co-Owner of www.ExpertResume.com