Tuesday Chege, a certified transformational life coach, shares strategies to help individuals in necessity-driven jobs achieve personal and professional growth.
Have a clear vision, set goals, seek learning opportunities, build connections, and prioritise self-care, she advises.
What strategies can individuals in necessity-driven jobs use to transform their roles into opportunities for growth?
First, have a clear vision of where you want to go. Identify your dream job and assess where you are now. Once you have this picture, set clear growth targets for your personal and professional life.
Psychology Today reports that only eight percent of people achieve their goals, so taking charge of your career development is crucial.
Next, identify the skills you need to improve and seek opportunities for growth, such as workshops, online classes, or certifications.
Networking is also essential—building strong professional connections can significantly boost career prospects.
Additionally, take on new responsibilities at work and volunteer for tasks that offer valuable experience. Regularly assess your progress and adjust your goals as needed. Stay focused and maintain a positive mindset, even when challenges arise.
Managing mental and emotional strain is crucial in necessity-driven jobs. How can individuals cope, especially when feeling stuck? It’s important to identify the root cause of feeling stuck. Are you putting pressure on yourself, or is it external? Understanding the source of stress is key.
Research shows that 60 percent of workers feel disconnected from their jobs, and 50 percent experience stress. Maintaining a positive mindset is essential—your perspective determines whether you see obstacles as roadblocks or opportunities for growth.
Surround yourself with positive influences, practice self-care, and seek professional support if necessary. Continuous learning and focusing on long-term goals can also help. If needed, don’t hesitate to seek psychosocial support.
How can someone reframe their perspective if they feel disconnected from their dream or stuck in a dead-end job?
Reframing your perspective starts with shifting how you view your current role. Instead of seeing it as a dead-end, identify aspects of your job that align with your broader career goals. Look for transferable skills and appreciate the value in what you’re currently doing.
Challenge negative thought patterns that hold you back. Express gratitude for your skills and talents, and set clear, achievable goals to stay motivated. Seeking mentorship and lifelong learning can provide fresh insights and new opportunities. Having an accountability partner can also help maintain momentum.
Regularly visualise your goals and practice self-compassion. Remember, it’s never too late to pursue your dreams—persistence is key.
How do external support systems—such as family, friends, mentors, or online communities—help elevate emotional well-being in necessity-driven jobs?
Support systems play a crucial role in maintaining emotional resilience. Family, friends, and mentors provide encouragement and motivation during tough times.
Choose your support system wisely—surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you rather than those who bring negativity. Online communities can also provide a sense of belonging, as connecting with people facing similar challenges can be reassuring. Don’t hesitate to open up and share your struggles, talking about them can ease the burden.
These networks serve as a foundation for emotional strength and long-term motivation.
