Over the weekend, I heard a very sad story. I went to a business workshop, and the trainer began by relating to us the story of his father. His father was a child during the Great Depression, and like many, he went into the family business. He was a butcher. The problem was, he hated it. Our trainer could remember being a little boy and seeing the strain his father was under and how unhappy he was. But, he felt stuck because he had a family to take care of, and it seemed to him that he had no other options. He always said he’d rather die than go on being a butcher, and a few years ago his wish came true. He died of cancer.

This story is tragic because it didn’t have to happen. When you believe you can create a better life for yourself, and decide you’re going to find a way, forces begin to collaborate in your favor and opportunities appear. While today people are waking up to the importance of enjoying your job for a full and happy life, earlier generations sometimes saw work as only a means to an end. As sad as it is that many of them missed out on much happiness, you can see their sacrifice as a huge gift. Their lives can serve to inspire you to take control of your own career happiness so that you pass on to your children not only a roof over their heads, but also the permission to do what makes them happy. And they learn that from watching you lead a happy life yourself.

Job stress and unhappiness can take their toll on your health, relationships and career success. If you find yourself unsatisfied in your career, I invite you to check out my free report, 101 Ways to Be Happy at Work – NOW! In it you’ll find concrete steps you can take today to create a joy-filled career.  I also offer many affordable coaching packages if you find you need more guidance and clarity. Visit the Coaching page to learn more.

To your success!

Allison

Filed under: Career Happiness, Uncategorized