Rich legacy

''You only live once''! Whilst the average 'three score years and ten' has been pushed a bit further now, the fact remains - eventually we will be gone. And what will remain?

In knowing people who are absolutely passionate about what they do and why they do it, there is an awareness of how they are absorbed in 'flow', happy  and fulfilled by their focus. When 'work' (i.e. economic activity) and 'play' (that which gives joy) are one and the same, very often the previous quest for 'balance' recedes and is seen for what it might be: nothing more than a desire to retain the illusion of sanity by ensuring that what has to be endured in association with the process of earning money does not threaten everything else which matters most! 

Limiting the extent to which we work at something we do not truly love so that we have time for the other aspects of our lives might be a tactic but it is not really a sensible lifelong strategy! Recognising this, often in mid career, leads many to reflect deeply on the fundamental purpose of their existence. On one level as a lawyer, banker or whatever the usual trappings of success are there and yet, however much they deliver economically, it fails to satisfy.

Living a life of purpose through which a rich legacy of achievement and a tangible contribution to society remains in perpetuity may well sound like a flight of fancy and pretty far fetched for the 'common man'. However, earning a living in a way which maximises meaning and enjoyment in life is actually within the grasp of anyone with real desire to discover their true passion and the determination to strive and reach their goals.  

Being encouraged or pushed into a field of study at university and then entering a profession in order to play out the wishes of a parent or other authority figure is still not uncommon.  And even the right career can feel wrong when conducted in an industry sector with which one has no affinity or in an organisation where the culture and values are at odds with one's own.  Why carry on if you hate work, hate your boss, are unfulfilled, frustrated and not passionate about what you do?

If you have a nagging, uncomfortable level of dissatisfaction - whether borne for days, weeks or months or are experiencing a sudden crisis in response to a very specific catalyst the simple act of getting in touch with us is a positive and proactive step forward on the road to exploring new beginnings.

Partnering with a Position Ignition Guide is certain to be energising and enlightening. The process of analysis, reflection, decision making and action will propel you to greater self awareness and confidence than perhaps you ever thought possible.

The clarity which results will fire up your achievement in the months and years to come. If it's never too late and you're never too old, if not now, then when ? 

About the Author

Mary Cope is a Position Ignition Guide. She works with individuals across all industry sectors and functions to fulfil their best, unique potential. After a long, successful career leading Human Resources in global companies Mary uses her deep knowledge and wide experience to help others fashion their most fulfilling careers and lives. Mary is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, holds an MBA, diplomas in executive coaching with distinction plus accreditations in career counselling and self development. She is a mother of 3 and loves walking in the countryside. Her favourite quote is:

'' Winners never quit, quitters never win !'' ( Vincent Thomas Lombardi )

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