When I decided to rebuild my career around the life I wanted, this is the process I used to figure out what direction I wanted to go in. It’s also what I walk people through now when they feel stuck.
First, start by pinpointing 2-3 moments from the last few months where you genuinely felt like your best self. Not because of how it made other people feel, and not because you met someone else’s expectations. Just because you felt good.
Now, here’s the catch: at least one of those needs to be from the last 24-48 hours.
I know, that’s a tough one, but that’s where the gold is. Look at a random interaction, something you saw, or a specific conversation that left you feeling energized. If you wish you had more of that, it counts.
Second, get even more specific. Dig into why that moment stood out. Was it the place? The people? How you applied yourself? Write everything down and start to pick out themes. What’s true across all of them?
I call this what you’re HARDWIRED for. This isn’t something you were taught. It’s what you gravitate toward naturally.
When I did this, I wrote down: adventure. (I know, duh.) BUT, I realized it wasn’t just about the outdoors, the risk, or the fun-factor. For me, it turns out the real payoff comes from organizing chaos. In fact, I have a raging talent for it. When we go into the mountains, I’m loaded up with gear for plan A through J. (I am designated trail-mom.)
Similarly, when I’m faced with a project with no plan or a situation with a million moving parts, I can lock tf in. I found it in the backcountry first — but when I look back at every job I’ve ever loved, every project I’ve stayed up late for, that same thing keeps showing up. And not only am I really good at it, but most of the time it doesn’t even feel like work.
Everyone applies for jobs where they think their skills match the requirements. They check the boxes and hope they’re qualified. But they don’t stop to consider their talents. And talents transfer. I didn’t have to stay in the outdoors to organize chaos. I could take it anywhere. And that’s exactly what I did.
So look at the people, the places, and the problems that light you up, that make you feel good in the moment, or help you get into flow. Understanding your own wiring is the foundation for building a career that supports the life you want.
Until next time,
Tana
p.s. (If you’ve already taken my free diagnostic, you're one step ahead. Haven't taken it yet? Try it here.)
p.p.s. Hey Jackson Hole! I’m hosting another breakfast on Tuesday, June 9th (8-9:30 am). Get details and book your spot here.
Recently Listened to: Using Play to Rewire & Improve Your Brain
Wearing: this jumpsuit + a button-up, my literal summer uniform
Supporting: My friend Lindsay’s (freaking gorgeous) new book, Women Shaping the West: Stories from Wyoming
