Unveiling Your Career DNA: Embracing Your Strengths and Passions Discovering Your Work Ikigai and Find Career Success
By Paul Cecala, GCDF, Feb 23, 2024
The Japanese discuss a process of “Ikigai” which loosely translates to “finding one’s purpose in life” or “reason for being.” I believe it is critically important for one’s personal success and fulfillment that you seek out your “work Ikgai,” or purpose in work. Those clients of mine who do so have often said that, like me, they no longer feel like they are working. They are getting paid (often handsomely) to do something they love and enjoy, brings them personal fulfillment, and brings value to society. While it is not easy to attain this kind of bliss, it is exhilarating to work towards uncovering your Career DNA – a unique fusion of strengths, passions, and the Japanese concept of Ikigai. Today, we're diving into actionable steps to uncover your true purpose and passion, drawing inspiration from the Japanese concept of Ikigai.
Like the chemistry of your body’s cells, your Career DNA consists of those strengths and passions that get your blood flowing and creativity energized. You are seeking those things that make you forget about time and motivate you. Using the ideas of Vikas Narula, founder of Keyhubs.com, the answers to the following questions get at the idea I am going after:
What lights your fire?
What gets your creative juices flowing?
What do you want to spend your time working on, regardless of pay or what other people think?
What would you do if money were not an issue?
Spending some time truly contemplating these questions and their answers will help you find your strengths and passions.
Understanding Your Inherent Strengths
In the quest to unveil your Career DNA, let's start by identifying your strengths—the unique talents and skills that set you apart. Begin by reflecting on past successes, noting the activities where you excel. These are the foundations of your professional identity, the reservoirs of your untapped potential. Reflect on moments when you felt invincible when your innate talents shone brightest. What skills did you wield with effortless mastery? What tasks brought you unparalleled satisfaction?
Reach out to friends, family, and colleagues for feedback on your strengths—they may offer valuable insights you hadn't considered.
Next, consider how you can leverage these strengths to make a positive impact in the world. Whether it's through your work, volunteering, or personal projects, find ways to apply your strengths in meaningful ways that align with your values.
Exploring Your Passions
Next, let us delve into your passions—the driving force behind your professional endeavors. These are the flames that ignite your soul, the pursuits that infuse your life with meaning and purpose. Think about those competencies that bring moments of pure joy and exhilaration, when time seemed to stand still and you were wholly immersed in the present moment. What were you doing? What made those experiences special?
Ikigai teaches us to seek alignment between our passions and the needs of the world. Identify the intersection where your deepest passions intersect with the world's greatest needs, where your contributions are both meaningful and fulfilling. It is in this convergence that true purpose is found.
Take action to incorporate more of these passion-driven activities into your daily life. Whether it's pursuing a hobby, volunteering for a cause you care about, or exploring new interests, make time for the things that light you up inside.
Aligning Strengths and Passions with Career Paths
Now, armed with the wisdom of Ikigai, look to align your strengths and passions with your chosen career path. Explore the myriad possibilities that lie before you, guided by the principles of harmony and balance. Research industries, job roles, and organizations that resonate with your interests and values. Look for opportunities to apply your strengths and pursue your passions in your chosen field. Seek opportunities that resonate with your innermost desires and align with the needs of society.
Consider ways to gain relevant experience and skills, whether through internships, volunteering, or professional development opportunities. Seek out mentors and professionals in your desired field for guidance and advice on how to carve out a career path that aligns with your strengths and passions.
Ikigai teaches us to pursue careers that not only fulfill our personal ambitions but also contribute positively to the world. Consider how your unique blend of strengths and passions can be harnessed in service of a greater cause. Whether you find yourself in the boardroom or the classroom, let your work reflect your Ikigai—a testament to your purpose and passion.
Overcoming Challenges and Obstacles
As you navigate your career journey, you may encounter challenges and setbacks along the way. Fear, self-doubt, and external pressures can sometimes cloud your vision and derail your progress. But don't let these obstacles hold you back.
Take proactive steps to overcome challenges and stay focused on your goals. Practice self-care and resilience-building techniques to manage stress and maintain a positive mindset. Lean into discomfort, confront your fears, and emerge stronger on the other side. Surround yourself with allies who uplift and support you and draw strength from the knowledge that you are not alone on this journey.
Crafting Your Career Path
Finally, it's time to craft a career path that honors your strengths, passions, and true purpose. Armed with the ideas of what your work or career purpose looks like, now create a long-term vision for the next 15-40 years. Part of the vision is to consider the intermediate goals to attain your long-term vision. Set clear objectives and create a roadmap for achieving them, breaking down your objectives into actionable steps. Stay flexible and open to new opportunities and experiences along the way.
Regularly evaluate your progress and make adjustments as needed to stay aligned with your true purpose. Remember that your career journey is a lifelong process of growth and self-discovery, and that it's never too late to pursue your true calling.
Conclusion
Congratulations on taking the first steps towards uncovering your Career DNA and discovering your true purpose and passion. By taking actionable steps to identify your strengths, explore your passions, and align them with your career path, you're well on your way to creating a fulfilling and meaningful life and career.
And remember, Cecala Career Consultants, LLC, is here to support you every step of the way. The first worksheet in my book, “Take Control of Your Job Search,” is the perfect tool to help you with this journey. Further, if you ever need guidance or encouragement, don't hesitate to reach out. Together, let's unlock the door to your true purpose and passion.
Additional Resources
"Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life" by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles
"The Joy of Work: Finding Your Ikigai" by Dalai Lama XIV and Desmond Tutu
“Take Control of Your Job Search” by Paul Cecala
“What Color is Your Parachute” by Richard Bowles
https://www.onetonline.org/, learn about potential job titles and categories as well as the employment outlook data
https://openpsychometrics.org/tests/RIASEC/, The Holland Codes for career interests
https://www.mynextmove.org/explore/ip, O*Net's career interest inventory
About the Author:
Paul Cecala, a Global Career Developmental Facilitator (GCDF) certified career coach, is a principal at Cecala Career Consultants with decades of experience as a career coach helping individuals with finding career success. He has taught over 500 seminars and workshops on conducting successful job searches. Mr. Cecala can be reached at pcecala@cecalacareer.com . Follow him at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cecala-career-consultants.
Paul Cecala can help you navigate to your success. Learn more about his services here.
