Why You Should Embrace Getting Lost in Your Career Journey

Today, I'm going to explain how you can gain career currency by focusing on five key areas: curiosity, purposeful drifting, storytelling, reflective practice, and positioning.

Career currency is the foundation for developing those vital skills and experiences that make you valuable to employers.

Get these concepts down, and watch opportunities pop up like never before. Embrace them, and you'll gain confidence, uncover your strengths, and expand your network effortlessly. Simple steps, big results.

Now, let's Warmup.

1. Curiosity

Curiosity matters because it drives exploration and learning. It pushes you to ask questions and seek new experiences.

Imagine a recent graduate who only applies for jobs they feel 100% qualified for versus one who explores various roles, attends industry webinars, and networks with professionals. The explorer gains a broader perspective and more opportunities.

Spend an hour each week exploring a new industry blog or attending a webinar related to your field.

2. Purposeful Drifting

I was inspired by Helen Kapstein, an English professor at John Jay College, who urged students to drift with intention. This approach helps you see things from different perspectives and discover hidden opportunities.

Consider a professional who sticks to their daily routine versus one who purposely takes different routes to work, visits new local businesses, or attends diverse community events. The drifter uncovers new connections and insights that can enhance their career.

Once a month, visit a new part of your city or attend a local event outside your usual interests.

3. Storytelling

Storytelling is important because it helps you connect your experiences to your career narrative.

Think about two candidates: One who lists their skills and another who shows their skills in a digital portfolio. The portfolio creator stands out more to potential employers.

Build a digital portfolio showcasing your key projects and skills to make a stronger impression.

4. Reflective Practice

Reflective practice matters as it helps you learn from your experiences.

Picture someone who moves from experience to experience without reflection versus someone who takes time to jot down what they learned and how they grew. The reflective person continuously improves and can clearly articulate their development.

After a major project or event, write a short reflection on what you learned and how it can apply to future goals.

5. Positioning

Positioning is key because it determines how you are perceived in the job market.

Imagine two professionals: One who has a vague career direction and another who clearly positions themselves with a specific goal and plan. The latter attracts more targeted opportunities and can better market their skills.

Create a personal branding statement that clearly defines your career goals and strengths.

I hope you take these points to heart and use them to build a successful career. Embrace curiosity, drift with purpose, tell your story, reflect on your experiences, and position yourself wisely.