Variety is the Spice of Life
I have had a varied career. I started as a special events planner for NYCDOT before becoming a traffic engineer and transportation planner. I worked for consulting engineering firms and construction managers. I delivered projects for gas utilities, transportation agencies, member associations, and provided services that I never could have imagined when I began my career. I wrote proposals, made presentations to clients, created programs, and responded to emergencies. Along the way I became certified as a coach, earned my MBA, and was awarded my PMP.
The variety of experiences was my motivation. I wanted to learn more, experience different situations, explore opportunities. Unfortunately, most organizations I worked for did not meet those needs. You may experience a similar dynamic. Once we achieve a level of mastery or skill, organizations are less interested in throwing us into something new. The learning curve takes time, effort, and resources. This is a very short-sighted perspective. We hear about SMART or stretch goals, but they are generally specific to the lane people already occupy.
For many professionals, the need for variety in the tasks they are assigned is central to job satisfaction, engagement, longevity, and growth. The burden of this is shared between the manager and the employee. The individual needs to reflect on the path they want to take, and the skills needed to get from Point A to Point D. The manager also needs to take interest in the individual and ask the key questions. What do you enjoy the most? Where do you see yourself in 3 years? What skills do you think you will need to get there?
As you head into 2024, consider doing the following:
For me, variety extends beyond just work activities. I have a variety of interests that keep me engaged at work and at home. In my private time you will find me baking or working in the garden or volunteering with local non-profits. Professionally, some days are all about writing, others are filled with calls from clients, and some are dedicated to creating new programs.
Every new day presents an opportunity for variety and the promise of a new experience. I had to leave the corporate world to truly internalize that idea. Hopefully, you can navigate the dance of working on the tasks you excel at and add exciting new tasks that will light you up more successfully than I.
Drop me a note about your goals or new opportunities in 2024.
Michael Riegel
MRiegel@AECBusinessStrategies.com
516-238-0859