In today’s world of automation where resumes often get screened first by technology vs. a person, it’s important to ensure that you are using words that really tell your story….what makes you different as an employee. Yes, you should look at what the job requirements are and tailor your resume appropriately, but I think the more important work starts earlier. It’s about identifying what value you add to any organization you join…what makes you special.

What if there’s another variation that impacts most of us at some time or another? What if we all hit a “bottom” when we decide that where we are is no longer good enough? What if hitting this “bottom” is really about when our self-assessment says “I want more..fun, career growth, connection, etc.”? What if it’s when you say…Enough is enough and move from excuses, self-sabotage, and doubt to a place of power and change?

Don’t run from change just because it scares you. I like this quote because of its direct statement that we must actively choose the changes if we want to grow: "One can choose to go back toward safety or forward toward growth. Growth must be chosen again and again; fear must be overcome again and again." - Abraham Maslow.

If you go with the conventional wisdom that you will do the best in a job that you're good at and that you enjoy and maybe love, it's really important to ensure you're regularly reflecting on whether your current position allows you to be your best. However, don't forget to pay attention to what's going on around you to ensure that you're not sticking with something that won't be there in a few years.

I love riding over the Annapolis Bay Bridge as the view is beautiful.  However, I do not love actually being the driver.  For whatever reason, this bridge (and several others I've come across) scare me so what do I do...I hold on really tight to the steering wheel.  When I do this, my whole body tenses up, my overall stress level goes up, I start worrying if I'll really make it to the end of the bridge, and I slow down. 

When was the last time you said, "no" to something you were asked to do or even "not right now?" These are powerful phrases and aren't used often enough at work.

Over the years, I have found myself saying..."I'm so busy, I don't know when I'll get x done"...  This feeling of being overwhelmed seems to permeate so many discussions we have with each other as we try to juggle family responsibilities, work, and our personal hobbies and interests.  For me, I've learned that I need to be clear on what my top priorities are for the day, week, or month ahead so that I can keep those on the forefront of my focus.