When was the last time you invested in yourself? It seems like a simple question but 2 1/2 years ago I sat with it staring in my face. As I approached my 9-year anniversary at work, coming off leading one of the largest product launches in company history, I was suddenly faced with a restructure that resulted in being laid off. For nine years I had been a top performer, the problem solver, the one who simplified chaos. In an instant, it was gone.
Thankfully, I had leaders who cared about my development. Early in my career I learned that investing in a job makes the job important, while investing in yourself elevates your value. While some see a layoff as a negative season, for me it became an unexpected opportunity. Facing a career shift at 40 years old allowed me to realize an impactful three-tiered approach to investing in self that elevates all I do:
1. Investment in self
2. Investment in family/relationships
3. Investment in discovering what’s next
Investing in yourself may sound straightforward, yet it is often the most elusive, which is why it must come first. In a fast-paced world, our days are dictated by deliverables. Is your desire to complete tasks leaving your development in the dust? This can be in its simplest form tied to things like diet, sleep, and exercise while also extended into the ways we are growing emotionally, intellectually, and in our understanding of self.
Investing in family and relationships takes intention. There is a difference between being absent, showing up, and truly being present. Count how many times each day you follow a request with words like “quickly” or “fast” or “right away.” What is your pace, and where are you giving your time and attention? Pursuing presence in the moment is a gift to both you and those you are around.
Finally, invest in “what’s next.” Many of us grew up seeing linear career paths, with parents or grandparents often working for a singular company with modest progression. Today, pensions and long-term loyalty are far less common. What if your “what’s next” became an ongoing conversation rather than a single decision?
How has this shaped my story? It has led me to pursue presence in everything I do. From time with my family, to coaching multiple youth sports, volunteering at church, and running a full-time coaching and consulting business that supports growing business leaders.
Imagine what it will do for you!
Intentionally invest in yourself, bet on yourself, and begin to see opportunities in a whole new light!
PROP Coaching and Consulting | erik@propcoachingnandconculting.com | www.propcoachingandconsulting.com