These Five principles, created by career development specialists from across Canada, provide a useful guide to help prioritise what is important when looking to further your career. These principles help you reflect, in an ongoing manner, on the changing nature of the world of work:
1. Change is constant
We change constantly and so does the world around us — including the working world. Most people now encounter many jobs, in different occupations, organisations and industry sectors during their lifelong career journey. Adaptability and resilience are important skills to master. Every change, good or bad, brings new opportunities. It is said that the future belongs to those that can see it coming. Those who are most aware of change, in themselves and the world around them, are able to make proactive choices and benefit from change - rather than resist or complain about it.
2. Learning is Lifelong
Since change is constant, learning needs to be on-going. Learning does not end with the Leaving Cert or completion of third level studies or training. Opportunities to learn are everywhere! Learn to recognise them and make your learning lifelong.
3. Focus on the journey
Life is a journey. Identifying your goals and purpose gives direction. However, people who are too fixed on a destination can miss the doors of opportunity, relationships, situations and possibilities that present themselves along the way. Become a good traveller on the journey of life.
4. Access your Allies
The journey of life is not solitary. Friends, relatives, teachers, neighbours can be willing and helpful allies in choosing next steps on your life journey. Anyone who knows and cares about you can be a great ally for you, and you for them.
5. Follow your heart
Know yourself, believe in yourself and follow your heart. Imagining your future helps you understand what you really want in life. Knowing who you really are and what you want makes you strong and motivates you through life’s challenges. Believe in yourself, and never be afraid to dream. Those with dreams, however outlandish, are the lucky ones. Dreams can lead to an understanding of who we really are and what we really want, a prime motivator in shaping a meaningful, purposeful and rewarding career. No one should be afraid to pursue dreams based on what is in their heart.
The 'High Five' principles were conceived by Canadian career development leaders and are featured in The Real Game Series and all career resources from the National Life/Work Centre and other prominent Canadian career development organizations. |
