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Lifestyle

Ask Coach Carole with Carole Rehbock

Carole Rehbock
Special to the Emeryville Connection
June 2008

Dear Coach Carole,

Hi, I have been at my current position for four years and have been doing really well. However with all the economic news of recession I am uncertain about the future. The company I am with seems solid but there has been a “buzz” about reorganization and “tightening our belts”. My wife also works but she is feeling stressed about the future and wants us to reconsider some of our plans. There is so much talk about how bad things will get it is challenging to continue to move forward on our goals. We do have some savings but not enough to last a long period with one of us out of work. What do you suggest?

Sincerely,

Concerned about the future

Dear Concerned:

We can’t seem to escape the bad economic news, whether it is the price of gas, companies cutting budgets, layoffs, or the housing market. It is challenging to find a way to move forward when we are so uncertain about what the future may hold. I hear a common theme from people I talk to – that now is the time “to hunker down out of sight” and “just get through” whatever is to come, all the while putting dreams and goals on hold. Their inner dialogue says: “I will survive, but it will be tough. It is out of my control, I am stuck and out of options, so what is the use anyway?”

Rather than view life that way, what if instead we held the perspective that we could use this time to our advantage and continue on our personal and professional journey without a major disruption? Imagine yourself practicing the martial art of Aikido, where you move with the flow of what is coming at you rather than retreat or fight. Here are some suggestions to keep you flexible and directed so you can be successful during uncertain times.

1. Focus your attention on what matters

What are your intentions, values, and vision? Be clear about what has meaning, importance, and priority. Spend the time and money you have on those things that really make a difference in your life. Have quality conversations with your family to prioritize. Seek financial advice if you need it.

2. Make sure your professional life is in order

What skills do you need to sustain your marketability? Are you networking and keeping your pulse on opportunities? Do you have a resume that is up to date? Are you in conversation with your boss about your performance and doing what you can to excel in your current job?

3. Open up to possibilities

Are you really thinking outside of the box and giving yourself the time to explore the “outrageous?” Are you engaging in activities that allow for creativity and encourage innovation and new ways of thinking? Are you open to the idea that there are many more solutions once we give ourselves the opportunity to go beyond what we currently know?

The fact that you are looking at this now already is very big step. Remember to laugh a lot, love a lot, find support, take small steps, acknowledge yourself and what you have accomplished, focus on what you are grateful for, and don’t forget to breathe.

Sincerely,

Coach Carole

Carole Rehbock is the President and Founder of Consulting & Coaching Solutions. You can reach Carole at carole@rehbocksolutions.com or 510- 843-6417.