Thriving in Your Great Work-Life—Part Two

As I write, I’m interrupted by news flashes that the stock market hit its lowest point in nearly three years. I feel the tension beginning to build—my own and that of the media. Is this the beginning of another economic decline? How can we expect to thrive in this tumultuous business environment?

Once you know what’s within your control and what’s not, the second step in a thriving work-life is to deliberately choose to be flexible. To do otherwise makes you more brittle and more likely to break.

Flexibility is about searching for new ways to accomplish the same goals. Businesses that adapted quickly to the recession of 2008-09 listened to their customers and modified their business model to provide solutions to the new problems. The employees least impacted by the downturn were those who were willing to learn new skills, move to new facilities, or even change employers in order to maintain their career.

Ask yourself, “What’s possible now?” Look for ways to eliminate components of your work-life that are not adding as much value as the energy they take. Concentrate on doing more of what you do best and develop a personal brand based on excellence; become known for being the best at your particular talent.

Find ways to increase your visibility. How can you allow others to see the great value you generate? Whether you’re a new employee or a long-timer, you must be constantly demonstrating your value to your employer and your customer. In troubled times, your value is your most important asset for thriving in your great work-life.

Henry J. Kaiser is credited with saying, “Trouble is only opportunity in work clothes.”