justplainbil

Just Plain Bill

“If I am what I do, if I don’t am I not?”

(Author unknown)

Last summer

Many years ago, I heard this Zen-like saying that stayed with me and seems so relevant to me at the moment. I’ve been out of a full-time job for over nine months now. I’ve been presented with the opportunity to take the very advice that I’ve so freely given to others over the years: “Note to self – get on the path for what you’d like to do – not be – in your next career.”

In my role as a corporate trainer and consultant, I’ve encouraged those with whom I work that they are much more than what they do. It’s a natural tendency to introduce ourselves by the title of our current job. This especially restrictive habit is all too common in both casual and networking conversations.

Without gainful employment…without a job complete with some type of title…it’s become a challenge to define who I am in a way that conforms to conventional wisdom.

I’m interested to learn how you addressed this conundrum if you were ever in the same position. Ideas welcomed!

Two months later

Stop the Presses!

Eleven months from leaving my last full-time job, I’m now employed in a full-time position on a short-term development contract. I wonder how my perspective will change now that I have a “what I do” to influence how I introduce myself, how I look at myself, and “Who I am?”

Stay tuned!

Eight weeks later

Next chapter in the self-reflection based on how “what I do”, influences “who I am.”

Finished the development contract and observed that I felt energized, motivated and responsible for adding value to an organization – which all felt good. But, now that the work contract is over, will that feeling of euphoria continue?

I’ve also been energized to organize a new endeavor, offering a wealth of developmental opportunities for the 275 residents of the complex where I live.

Once again, stay tuned!