Let’s face it, as a career coach, I offer guidance, not slings. But here I am, sporting a navy-blue arm immobilizer sling and a newfound appreciation for bubble baths (one-handed washing is a challenge!). Yep, your friendly career cheerleader took a tumble on her bike, and guess what? My trusty left arm is officially out of commission (hi there, fellow left-handed friends!).
Now, before you envision a scene straight out of the Tour de France (with less lycra and more flailing limbs), this was a leisurely Sunday ride. Just a friendly reminder that sometimes, life throws metaphorical (and sometimes literal) curveballs.
But hey, even with a fractured arm, I’m still a career cheerleader! In fact, this little mishap has become an unexpected lesson in career management. Here’s how:
☑️Adaptability 101: Turns out, typing with one hand is surprisingly tricky. But you know what? I’m getting faster every day. This whole experience is a crash course (pun intended) in adaptability. Just like in your career, things rarely go exactly according to plan. Being able to adjust your approach, find new solutions, and still deliver results is a key skill.
☑️Prioritization Powerhouse: Suddenly, simple tasks like making coffee take on a whole new level of complexity. It’s forced me to become a master prioritizer, focusing on what absolutely needs to be done and delegating the rest. This translates directly to the ever-growing to-do list in your career. Learning to identify high-impact tasks and delegate effectively is a game-changer.
☑️The Power of Communication: Keeping my clients and colleagues informed about my limitations has been essential. This little spill has become a crash course in clear communication. Being able to articulate your needs, set realistic expectations, and collaborate effectively, even when you’re not at 100%, is crucial for career success.
☑️Resourcefulness: Let’s just say I’ve become very adept at using my right arm (hello, can opener nemesis!). This experience is a testament to resourcefulness. In your career, you won’t always have all the resources you need. Learning to leverage available tools, seek help when needed, and think creatively to overcome challenges is an asset.
So, while I may be sporting this supportive arm sling for a while, it’s not a showstopper for me. In fact, it’s a reminder that even setbacks can be opportunities for growth. And hey, if I can manage my career with one hand occupied, imagine what you can accomplish with both hands-free!
PS. Speaking of stepping outside your comfort zone, a huge shoutout to my fellow coach, Ric Fletcher for the nudge to write this post. His unwavering support is a constant reminder to take risks and embrace challenges – which is exactly why I’m hosting my first-ever LinkedIn Live event, Strategic Career Planning for Long-Term Success: Navigating the Journey this week! Arm sling or no arm sling, I’m making it happen—stay tuned! To attend this session, register here: bit.ly/TheCareerByDesignSeries
