Purposeful Professionalism: Starting small is thinking big
Introduction
In a world where career advice often emphasizes massive transformations, purposeful professionalism is an alternative approach to one’s professional journey. Professionalism with Purpose highlights sustainable, incremental changes and shifts in perspective over time.
The Concept of Purposeful Professionalism
Professionalism with purpose differs from traditional career advice because it emphasizes the importance of intention, purpose, and values in one’s professional journey. We can experience greater fulfillment and a sense of meaning when we approach our work with purpose and intention. How long have we spent trying to “fix” perceived weaknesses or “suffer through” difficult experiences? Individuals that practice purposeful professionalism adjust their focus away from so-called deficiencies and towards a daily practice of learning and growth. This reduces stress, increases compassion for oneself and others, and makes long-lasting positive impacts.
The Power of Incremental Change
Small, incremental changes and shifts in perspective can lead to significant results over time — both in our personal and professional lives. We can make small, lasting changes by setting achievable goals, practicing self-reflection, and maintaining a clear intention framework.
Here’s Something to Try
This week, recognize those moments at work you dread — may be a difficult task or dealing with a challenging colleague. How can you shift your perspective to focus on the learning opportunities in that situation? How can that help reframe a problem you now see as largely negative?
Coming Up
Purposeful Professionalism begins with aligning your mindset with three guiding principles: a pace shift, a vision change, and a community shift. We invite you to join us for an upcoming series of three blog posts exploring each of these guiding principles in more detail.