Sitting on the Riverbank
Stop watching from the sidelines—get in the boat and navigate toward your dreams.
I believe everyone has room for improvement at some point in their life. Years ago, I adopted a mindset that has made me a driven, ambitious person and a lifelong learner.
For example, I have a master's degree, and just last year, well past the age of 65, I earned three certifications: Certified Career Coach, Certified Life Coach, and Certified Workforce Development Professional. This year, I'm earning another certification, this time in Digital Marketing.
Get in the Boat
That mindset is this: I can either sit on the riverbank and watch the boats cruise by on their way to beautiful destinations, or I can get into a boat and find myself at one of those wonderful destinations. The time I spend sitting on the riverbank watching the boats go by is wasted time when I could be getting into a boat and going somewhere. Either way, time is going to move on-with or without you.
For example, it typically takes two years to earn an associate's degree. I can either keep working at a job I don't like, or I can improve myself along the way and earn the degree that will lead me to a new destination. I may still need to work that job during the two years I'm in school, but at least I'm in the boat, moving toward something better. Sitting on the riverbank isn't going to get me to that new destination or help me earn my degree or credential.
So Many Ways to Improve Ourselves
There are so many ways to improve ourselves today! You can earn certifications that qualify you for some excellent career opportunities. You can also invest in trade school and build a rewarding, well-paying career. It's not always a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree that you need to land your dream job. Do a little research, identify the qualifications your dream job requires, and then set sail.
It all starts with believing in yourself and investing the time to gain new skills that increase your value in the job market. Things may seem impossible, but if you don't try, if you don't believe in yourself, or if you feel you don't deserve to reach that destination, how will you ever know what you're capable of achieving?
Get in the boat and go places. Sitting on the riverbank is for those who have already traveled to those destinations and are now encouraging you to begin your own journey up the river.
Margie Winter, Certified Career Coach
Career Services by Margie.com
