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“Passion and purpose go hand in hand. When you discover your purpose, you will normally find it’s something you’re tremendously passionate about.” – Unknown I worked in a dead end job for many years, which I hated. It was never my dream gig, not by a long shot, and it did not excite me. Moreover, neither the job nor the environment motivated me to excel or to maximize my full potential. I needed a change, but, most importantly, I needed career inspiration to keep me motivated day-to-day. Whether it is to re-frame your workplace goals and objectives or to assess the reason for working in a job, everyone needs a little career inspiration at regular intervals. It is also encouraging to know that others have been through this quandary before, so it is helpful to read and learn from the experiences of others who have made a career change to pursue their passion with poise, exuberance, and tenacity. You will never discover your passion or ideal career path by sitting around pondering a change. The process of finding your passion entails tapping into the gifts and talents that are specific to you. Identify what matters to you, because your values are the road map to your perfect career. Remember, skills can be learned, but your passion is a part of who you are. Pursue your passion with confidence and determination! My dead-end job was frustrating, and I forced myself to make a change by assessing what I would love to do even if I was not being paid. Surprisingly, my assessment led me to fantasize about teaching and developing others. Today, I am passionate about my career as a professor! The process of connecting your unique interests, motivations, passions, and understanding your authentic self, will give you the power in your chosen discipline others can never claim. If you pursue your passion, you will find yourself not only in a position of power but, ultimately, in a job for which you will earn money on your terms.

I met my first mentor at an early age: Mom. She was an exceptional mentor and strong role model. The example she set and the experiences she shared prepared me at an early age to develop the knowledge and skills in pursuit of my career path. Early in my career, I sought a mentor to help maximize my full professional potential and create a clear career trajectory. Seeking a mentor was one of the best decisions that I had made. Finding a mentor is a great way to take the next step in your career. Mentoring is a valuable developmental activity that is finding someone who has experience, is willing to share knowledge, and is eager to provide advice to help you reach your goals. Mentoring is a process that facilitates professional growth and support, which requires open and honest mentor-mentee communication through mutually beneficial relationships. These relationships usually last a lifetime. The process of finding a mentor should be carefully planned and thoroughly thought out. Keep in mind that a single mentor-mentee relationship probably may not satisfy all needs over the course of your career. You will likely develop a portfolio of mentors to meet different phases of your professional and personal life. Once a mentor has been found, beginning the relationship building process is a key to success. No relationship is built overnight, and there is no fast-and-easy way to make the relationship happen; give the relationship time to develop. During the mentoring process ask for specific advice, which may help the mentor to develop a viable plan for success. Ask for suggestions and feedback. As your relationship grows you, should find many benefits: Creativity and independence Self-confidence and encouragement Lasting professional relationships Inspiration and motivation If you are committed to developing your full potential and are willing to allocate time and energy, mentoring may be your best avenue for growth and development. The results are long-lasting, and the professional relationships are priceless.