What a year of change. As I reflect on my journey since leaving my role as VP of Customer Success in November 2023, I feel a mix of emotions—excitement, uncertainty, and a newfound clarity about what truly matters to me. The transition from a well-defined position to a path of self-discovery has been anything but easy. Yet, it has propelled me towards a purpose that resonates deeply with my passions and values.
The Initial Struggle
After stepping away from my VP of Customer Success role, I encountered a profound sense of emptiness. This pivotal moment forced me to reevaluate not only my career but also the core of who I am. Maybe it is an age thing, but I decided to re-access what really sparked joy for me - from scratch. I began to reflect on my passions, particularly my love for psychology and my desire to build businesses that genuinely help others. This introspection laid the groundwork for what would become THE CS ACADEMY, a learning portal designed for Customer Success professionals, as well as my new role as a consultant for scale-ups.
The People Who Shaped My Path
Throughout this journey, I’ve been fortunate to connect with incredible individuals—Ami, Amy K, Cecile, and Mark—who have played significant roles in my transformation. Their insights and encouragement have reminded me that the journey is just as important as the destination. This perspective shift has been invaluable, teaching me to embrace both the highs and lows as integral parts of growth.
1. Face the Truth
Facing the truth about your current situation can be one of the most challenging yet enlightening experiences. It requires deep and honest self-reflection, considering the bubble you live in and questioning whether your values are still aligned with your actions.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
- Are you still passionate about your work?
- Do your daily activities reflect what you value most?
- Are your beliefs supporting your goals, or have they become limiting?
This introspection can reveal uncomfortable truths, such as dissatisfaction or misalignment with your core values. I realised that I liked to work hard but also liked to escape to wonderful places on a monthly basis - almost like running away from something, but I did not understand why I did this. I felt like I was on a permanent chase.
Acknowledging these feelings is the first step toward real change. It encourages me to reassess my path and make informed decisions about what comes next, helping me align my actions with my authentic self.
2. Look for Help
Change can feel isolating, but seeking support can be a transformative step. Finding mentors, coaches, friends, or peers who can provide insights and encouragement can significantly enhance your journey.
Why Seeking Help Matters:
- Perspective: Others can offer fresh viewpoints that you might not have considered. Follow Ami if you have been laid off and want to read inspiring stories.
- Accountability: Sharing your goals with someone creates a sense of accountability, motivating you to stay on track.
- Emotional Support: Opening up about your challenges fosters deeper connections and allows you to feel understood.
Engaging in conversations about your struggles can lead to breakthroughs. Whether it’s through formal coaching sessions or casual discussions with friends, the support network you build can provide invaluable guidance and reassurance as you navigate change.
3. Get Creative
Getting creative involves tapping into your imagination and envisioning your ideal life and career. This process is about breaking free from the constraints of fear and self-doubt.
Exploring Your Ideal World:
- Visualization: Picture what success looks like for you. What kind of work would you be doing? Who would you be helping?
- Fearlessness: Allow yourself to dream without the fear of failure. What would you pursue if you knew you couldn't fail? This mindset can open doors to possibilities that align with your deepest desires.
This creative exercise is not just about dreaming; it’s about identifying potential paths that excite you. It can lead to innovative ideas and ventures that resonate with your core values, setting the stage for meaningful work. Here is a great podcast episode to get you started.
4. Craft It
Once you have clarity about your passions and vision, it’s time to craft your path forward. This involves a deeper exploration of 1. What do you love? 2. What are your skills? 3. What does the world need? and 4. How can you make money with it?
Crafting Your Journey:
- Passion Identification: What activities make you lose track of time? What topics do you find yourself drawn to repeatedly?
- Skill Assessment: Reflect on your strengths and experiences. What skills have you honed that can be applied to new opportunities?
- Market Needs: Conduct research to understand gaps in the market. What problems are people facing that align with your passions and skills?
By synthesizing these elements, you can create a roadmap that not only fulfils you personally but also addresses real-world needs. This process can lead to the development of projects, products, or services that are both impactful and financially viable.
5. Jump and Adapt
Taking action is the most crucial step in this journey. Building momentum is key; it’s about consistently moving forward, even when faced with obstacles or setbacks.
Action Steps:
- Start Small: Begin with manageable tasks that contribute to your larger goals. For example, you could launch a blog, network with industry professionals, or create a prototype for your idea. I started posting every day and writing this newsletter.
- Stay Committed: Consistency is vital. Regularly engage with your audience, share your insights, and refine your offerings based on feedback.
- Embrace Iteration: Understand that your journey will involve trial and error. Be open to adapting your approach based on what you learn along the way.
The journey of your personal entrepreneurship and growth is not linear.
There will be ups and downs, but by committing to your passions and continuously taking action, you can create a fulfilling career that evolves with you.
Conclusion
These five learnings have not only guided me through my transition but have also shaped my vision for the future. As I continue to build THE CS ACADEMY and embrace my role as a consultant for scale-ups, I carry these insights with me. They remind me that the journey is a rich tapestry of experiences, each contributing to my growth as a leader and individual. If you can, please reflect on these points in your own journey. They can help you navigate the complexities of change and discovery with resilience and joy. Let's go!
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