Have you ever been to the doctor’s office when they were running behind?
Ugh!
You’re stuck in a room with old magazines, the same video on a loop, and forced to listen to someone’s phone conversation.
I’m always impatient, so having to wait for something I need or want is my least favorite thing.
That’s why, when I was stuck in my career, it was very challenging for me. I felt like it was my time to get to the next level, but my desire didn’t match my progress.
When you’re anxiously waiting to gain joy in your career, but it seems to be taking longer than you’d like, I call this time, “the waiting room”.
While I was in the “waiting room”, I grew frustrated, disappointed and my confidence took a hit.
Yet, I didn’t stop working towards my goals.
I challenged myself to look for ways to keep growing. I sought out new experiences and built new relationships. I invested in a coach to help me gain clarity so I could build a plan.
It wasn’t always easy, but I kept putting one foot in front of the other.
What I learned is that action creates clarity.
“The waiting room” was pivotal for me. I grew in so many ways and that time prepared me for what was to come.
If you’re in “the waiting room” of professional joy, don’t be discouraged. Your time is coming, but there is still more work for you to do.
Here are some things to think about as you continue to work on your plan.
- What areas of my life can I continue to grow?
- What do I need to let go of to create room for what’s next?
- What progress have I made that I’m not giving myself enough credit for?
- What’s driving my urgency?
- What skills and traits can I hone or grow?
- Where is fear holding me back?
- What action should I take, but haven’t?
Be encouraged while in the waiting room because once you make it through that door, it will be worth the wait.