Why would you do this when money is already at a premium? The reason is simple: you cannot afford to spend time and money going in the wrong direction. Decisions based on impulse, convenience, and gut feelings may take you to a job that is wrong for you. Impulse decision-making now can have two negative repercussions: you don’t find a career opportunity with promotion and pay, and you’re left feeling unfilled—without passion for what you’re doing. When you’re trapped in a job that isn’t right for you, you may experience feelings of helplessness and hopelessness that will be accompanied by stress. All of that will affect you mentally and physically and could cause some real health issues. A coach can help you decide what direction you need to go in. He or she can even help you decide whether you need to return to school or take some form of training to achieve your goals.

A coach can not only help you clarify your goals, but also become a resource and support system in achieving them. The old saying that “time is money” is still important today. Don’t spend your time or money going in the wrong direction. Take charge of your life, and get moving in the right direction with the right support.

Here are a few tips that anyone can use during these times. If you lose your job or go through a divorce or death, give yourself time to grieve. It is perfectly alright—in fact, it’s quite normal—to feel bad about the situation. Anger is also a normal response. Be patient with yourself and try to understand your anger. Remember, there are things we can change and things we have no control over. Face the challenges of the situation, and then, when you’re ready, get out and start living again. Consider doing the following:

A. Develop a plan for what you want to do and where you want to go with your life.
B. Put your plan into action.
C. Keep track of how your plan is working and make any necessary adjustments to it.
D. Rejoice in the small victories and progress you make.
E. If you need to join a support group, realize that it can strengthen you during this time and provide wonderful allies.
F. Keep a journal so you can record your thoughts. Your entries will allow you to see that you are making emotional and physical progress as you work toward a new direction in your life.
G. If you are out of a job or going through a rough time emotionally, it’s the perfect time to learn a new skill, take a course, challenge yourself and see how well you meet the challenge. This can definitely be a self esteem builder.
H. Exercise during times of stress. It will help you face the day and keep you in good health.

Finally, when things are going in the direction you want and you are making progress, reward yourself in small ways. You deserve it, whether it’s a dessert, movie, new outfit, or a dinner out.

The tough times may last awhile, but you can create your own good times with the right choices. And there’s nothing tough about coaching: you’ll find it enjoyable, revealing and tremendously productive. A good career during these times—one you are right for and that the market will support—will be the thing that makes your hard times short-lived. This makes the cost of a Career and Life Coach a bargain. Your investment now may reap tremendous benefits in the years ahead.

Sylvia Christian is a Career and Life Transition coach whose practice offers both individual coaching sessions as well as Workshops for Women.

For more information on Life Coaching or to set up an appointment, log on to www.woman2womanlifecoaching.com or call 757-648-1412.