How to figure out what you want to do: the jealousy test
- Fri, January 04 2013
- Filed under: Nonprofit leadership Personal
It’s the time of year when a lot of us (including me) take stock. Why are we here? What should we be doing in 2013?
A few years back, I was lamenting to my wise cousin Elisabeth that I wasn’t sure where I should focus my work. What was the best job for me? What was I meant to be doing with my life?
She told me her method for figuring that out. She pays attention to when she feels jealous. If she hears about a job someone’s taken or a project someone has started and feels envious, that’s a clear sign it’s what she most wants to do.
We’re not talking about the nasty kind of envy - as in the deadly sin where you feel diminished by others’ success and want to derail someone else’s good fortune. And I don’t mean longing for the fame and money that can be a side benefit of professional success. I simply mean the telltale twinge you feel when you hear about someone’s endeavor and wish you could do that, too. Stop and wonder: What about that activity creates a craving in you? Was it something you’ve always longed to try? Something you’ve been afraid to try? Maybe you can and should attempt that very thing.
It’s a clarifying feeling. Jealous? Maybe you should be chasing that dream yourself.
Comments
Thank you for your post this morning! The topic is particularly relevant to me today, as it is my last day working in a position I love at a non-profit with a mission for which I am passionate. It is hard to leave, but your advice is spot-on! I will be listening to my passions and paying attention when I feel “jealous.” I am confident I can find another great fit for my passions!
Thank you
LOVE this!!!