07/09/2024 by Kori Burkholder

How To Adapt Your Career To Your Life's Journey

Are you yearning for freedom, flexibility, and adventure in your career but feeling stuck as your priorities shift? Whether you're seeking exhilarating experiences in your 20s or craving stability in your 40s, navigating these changes can be challenging yet rewarding. Join me as we explore how to align your work with your evolving values, reassess your goals, and embrace continuous personal growth. Discover the keys to a fulfilling career that adapts to your life's journey.

Finding Freedom, Flexibility, and Adventure in Your Career

Many of us desire freedom, flexibility, and adventure in our careers, especially in our younger years. These elements are often sought after by those in their 20s and 30s, as I did during those years. I wanted to share an inspiring story from a recent call with a client who embodies these qualities in his career as a wilderness guide.

An Adventurous Career Path

This individual has spent the last two decades guiding whitewater rafting trips and jungle expeditions around the globe, including breathtaking locations like New Zealand. His career has been filled with adventure, meeting new people, and experiencing the great outdoors. However, as he approaches 40, his priorities are shifting.

Evolving Career Priorities

Despite his love for adventure, he now seeks more stability, a closer connection with friends and family, a solid home base, and the potential to start a family. This shift in priorities is natural and something I've seen often in my role as a career coach. Our goals and values evolve as we progress through our careers, reflecting our changing needs and desires.

Navigating Career Transitions

Understanding that our careers are an evolution rather than a destination can help manage the unhappiness some feel in their current roles. Here are some key steps to navigate this shift:

Recognize and Accept Change

It's normal for career goals to evolve. What excites you at 25 may not at 45, and that's okay.

Reassess Your Values: Regularly evaluate your values, strengths, and skills. Values can shift over time, and understanding these changes can help you make more informed career decisions.
Seek Aligned Opportunities: Look for opportunities that align with your current priorities. This might mean changing industries, pursuing further education, or even starting your own business.
Invest in Personal Growth: Continuous learning and self-improvement are crucial. This could involve formal education or personal passion projects. Expanding your skills and knowledge helps you stay adaptable and agile in your career.

A Personal Journey of Transition

For example, I transitioned from a 20-year corporate career to starting my own business in my 40s. This change allowed me to align my work with my evolving priorities and values. Embracing flexibility and adaptability has been key to my personal growth and fulfillment.

Embrace the Journey

The story of the wilderness guide is a powerful reminder of how our priorities can shift and how we can navigate these changes. His desire for more stability while still leveraging his skills and passion is a testament to the importance of aligning career choices with evolving personal values.

Seeking Clarity

If you're feeling stuck in your career and unsure of your next steps, gaining clarity about your goals and values is crucial before making any moves. Jumping straight to job boards without understanding what you truly want can lead to more dissatisfaction. I encourage you to take time for deep self-exploration to identify what you need from your career.

Get Support
I'm here to support you if you need help with this process. Book a free 15-minute call with me to discuss your goals and see how we can work together to help you achieve career clarity and fulfillment.

Embracing the journey of career evolution, reassessing values, seeking aligned opportunities, and investing in personal growth are key to achieving a fulfilling career that adapts to your evolving priorities. Freedom, flexibility, and adventure are possible at any career stage if you remain open to change and growth.