Ari Shaffer's Blog, page 2

Embracing an Auspicious New Year: A Mindful Approach to Achieving Your Goals

Welcome, dear readers! I’m Aricia Shaffer, Master Career Strategist, and this is Discover Your Calling. Today, let’s explore a thoughtful perspective on ushering in the new year and achieving resolutions without setting ourselves up for failure.

1. The Pitfalls of Traditional Resolutions:
Many of us have experienced the cycle of making ambitious resolutions only to feel disheartened when we can’t stick to them. The pressure to be perfect from day one often leads to self-criticism and setbacks.

2. Embrace Imperfection:
Rather than adhering to strict rules, consider setting more flexible goals. For example, shifting your diet to include more vegetables and fewer sweets throughout the year allows for creativity and a more human approach.

3. Ditch the Rules:
Traditional resolutions often come with rigid rules, which can feel punitive and restrictive. Instead, skip the rules and explore a more inspired and enjoyable path to achieving your goals.

4. Find Inspiration:
Seek inspiration from others who have successfully achieved similar goals. Whether it’s organizing your house or adopting a healthier lifestyle, watching shows or connecting with friends can ignite motivation.

5. Make It Enjoyable:
Resolutions don’t have to be a chore. Incorporate enjoyment into your journey by involving friends, joining clubs, or participating in activities that align with your goals. Making positive changes should be a fulfilling experience.

6. Be Your Own Genie:
Shift your mindset from focusing on fixing what’s wrong with you to identifying your wishes and desires. Consider what’s on your bucket list and find small, achievable ways to bring those dreams to life.

7. Focus on Bucket List Items:
Connect your resolutions to your bucket list. If spending more time with family is a goal, include activities you’ve always wanted to do, like visiting museums or starting a garden. Align your resolutions with meaningful experiences.

8. Shift in Mindset:
Move away from the mentality of working on weaknesses. Instead, invest your time in enhancing your strengths and doing what you love. Delegate tasks that don’t align with your strengths to maximize your potential.

9. AI Assistance:
Use the power of AI to explore and enhance your strengths. Ask questions like “How can I maximize my strengths in a new job?” or “What jobs are suitable for people with specific challenges?” AI can offer insights and starting points.

As we step into 2024, let’s leave behind the traditional approach of rules and resolutions. Embrace imperfection, find inspiration, and focus on your bucket list. Remember, it’s the journey that matters. Wishing you a joyful and fulfilling year ahead! Thank you for tuning in, and I look forward to our next conversation. Take good care.

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Mastering Career Filters and Manifesting Your Ideal Job

In the latest episode of “Discover Your Calling,” Master Career Strategist Aricia Shaffeer delves into the concept of filters and their impact on our perception of the world, particularly in the realm of career choices. Shaffeer emphasizes the power of controlling these filters and discusses how this control can significantly influence our job search and overall career trajectory.

The Power of Filters

Aricia introduces the idea that we have control over the filters through which we perceive the world. Drawing on a conversation with a friend, she highlights the importance of deciding how much of the chaotic external world we allow into our personal space. This concept, as she explains, is crucial not only in navigating the challenges of the world at large but also in managing the overwhelming nature of a job search.

Navigating Overwhelming Times

During a job search, especially in the face of uncertainties and challenges, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the multitude of possibilities and potential obstacles. Shaffeer suggests that narrowing down our focus and visualizing our ideal career can help make the process more manageable. She recounts a story of a client who, despite physical limitations, used visualization to redefine her career goals and ultimately found a fulfilling role within a space program.

Manifesting Your Ideal Career

Aricia dismisses the notion that anything is possible simply by dreaming hard enough but advocates for intentional, focused thinking. She encourages listeners to define what they truly want in their careers, emphasizing the importance of clarity in identifying specific desires, from day-to-day tasks to the overall work environment.

A Story of Transformation

The podcast shares a compelling story of a client who, despite initial skepticism, visualized a seemingly unattainable goal of becoming an astronaut. While the client couldn’t fulfill this exact dream due to physical constraints, the exercise revealed key elements she valued in a career—science, collaboration, and continuous learning. This clarity allowed her to find a role within a space program that aligned with her passions and abilities.

Setting Intentions for Your Career

Shaffeer stresses the significance of setting intentions for one’s career. Many individuals struggle to articulate their true desires beyond a superficial level. By encouraging listeners to imagine every detail of their ideal job, Aricia believes they can extract valuable information that will guide their career decisions.

Conclusion

In concluding the episode, Aricia prompts listeners to ponder and define what they truly want in their careers. By setting clear intentions, individuals can gain a better understanding of their path, the necessary steps to take, and the support they may require. With this newfound clarity, Aricia believes individuals can navigate their careers more purposefully and effectively.

The key takeaway: Take control of your career filters, define your true desires, and manifest your ideal job. Until the next episode, take good care, and may your career journey be intentional and fulfilling.

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Navigating Seasons in Your Career and Life

In a recent episode of “Discover Your Calling” with Master Career Strategist Aricia Shaffer, the focus was on the common sentiment of feeling that one should have life all figured out by a certain age. Aricia sheds light on the misconception that life follows a linear path and emphasizes the importance of understanding the different seasons in one’s life.

In Your 20s: Embracing Change and Learning Curve

For those fresh out of school and entering the workforce, Aricia acknowledges the challenges of transitioning from an academic to a professional environment. She encourages individuals to take one step at a time, whether it’s managing relationships, living independently, or excelling in a new job. Celebrating small victories is key during this steep learning curve.

In Your 30s: Designing Your Ideal Work Culture

Aricia discusses the unique challenges faced by those in their 30s, often with some work experience under their belt. It’s a time to reassess whether the current work culture aligns with personal values and needs. Imagining the ideal work environment, considering factors like flexibility for family time, becomes crucial during this season.

In Your 40s: Rethinking Retirement and Exploring New Avenues

Addressing the assumptions around retirement, Aricia advises against a one-size-fits-all approach. People in their 40s are encouraged to explore opportunities for career shifts or modifications. This is a time to embrace change and view the future as an adventure, even if it means deviating from the established path.

Beyond Your 50s and 60s: Embracing New Seasons

Aricia reassures those in their 50s, 60s, and beyond that life is a continual journey of learning and adapting. There’s no need to feel pressured to have everything figured out. Seeking support, whether from a coach, therapist, spiritual guide, or through personal adventures, is emphasized. Life is about figuring out what you want at each stage.

Conclusion: Life is a Constant Thread of Learning

The overarching message from Aricia Shaffer is that life is a constant process of figuring things out. Instead of berating ourselves for not having it all figured out, she encourages us to reflect on what we want to sort out in our lives. The beauty of life lies in the perpetual journey of learning and evolving.

Aricia invites listeners to share their thoughts and reach out to her through her website, Whether you’re a career seeker in need of guidance or someone actively engaged in a job search, Aricia offers workshops and support to help you navigate your unique journey. Life is full of possibilities, and Aricia is here to assist you in discovering yours.

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Harnessing Transferable Skills for a Fulfilling Career Transition

Are you at a crossroads in your career and wondering how to make a successful leap into a new field? Master Career Strategist, Aricia Shaffer, believes the key to discovering your true calling lies in your career superpower – transferable skills.

In this blog article, we’ll explore the valuable concept of transferable skills and how they can empower you to transition to a new career seamlessly. Whether you’re a teacher, a pilot, a surgeon, or working in the tech industry, this advice applies to you. Let’s dive in.

The Teacher’s Dilemma

Imagine you’re a teacher looking to explore opportunities beyond the classroom. Often, individuals in this situation tend to limit their options by asking, “Where else can I teach?” It’s a natural inclination, considering their existing skill set. Aricia Shaffer, however, encourages a broader perspective and thorough exploration of all career possibilities.

The Power of Transferable Skills

The key to unlocking new career avenues lies in recognizing and leveraging your transferable skills. Aricia emphasizes using AI tools to uncover these hidden talents. When you input your job position into these tools, they generate a list of skills associated with your role. What’s fascinating is that these lists often reveal skills you possess but may not have been aware of.

The Teacher’s Superpower

For instance, a teacher’s skills extend far beyond lesson planning and classroom management. Teachers are exceptional communicators, skilled in conflict resolution, and possess excellent public speaking abilities. Their empathy, time management, and organizational skills are also top-notch. These are just a few examples, but there are many more hidden talents beneath the surface.

Discovering Your Hidden Skills

The challenge many face is undervaluing their transferable skills, believing that everyone possesses them. However, as Aricia points out, skills like engaging a group of students, making complex topics relatable, and breaking down information for understanding are unique and valuable. They are the building blocks of successful careers in various fields.

Tailoring Your Application

When you’re ready to transition to a new career, it’s crucial to tailor your application to highlight your transferable skills. Analyze job postings from your target field and compare them with the skills you’ve unearthed through AI tools. Identify the skills that overlap and stand out. Make sure your resume and cover letter emphasize these skills, aligning them with the specific requirements of the new job.

The Power of Stories

During interviews, storytelling can set you apart. Share anecdotes from your previous career that showcase your transferable skills in action. It makes you memorable and demonstrates your adaptability and suitability for the new role.

Unleash Your Full Potential

Aricia Shaffer emphasizes that most people have not just multiple jobs but multiple careers in their lifetime. These transitions are often facilitated by the common thread of transferable skills. By identifying and harnessing your soft skills and unique strengths, you can find fulfillment in diverse careers.

Conclusion

In the dynamic landscape of today’s job market, the ability to pivot and adapt is invaluable. Your career superpower, the treasure trove of transferable skills, holds the key to unlocking the doors to new opportunities. So, if you’re embarking on a job search or considering a career shift, take Aricia Shaffer’s advice to heart and discover the limitless possibilities that lie within your unique skill set. Remember, your career journey is not about one job; it’s about many, all connected by your remarkable set of transferable skills.

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The Secret to Getting Hired Is Unleashing Your Character Traits

Greetings, fellow career seekers! Today, we delve into the captivating world of job hunting with the insightful Aricia Shaffer, the Master Career Strategist, and her podcast “Discover Your Calling.” Her wisdom is like a guiding light in the competitive job market.

In this blog, we’ll explore Aricia’s discussion on the crucial factor that often determines whether people get hired or not – character traits. These hidden gems of your personality can set you apart from the competition and seal the deal in your job interviews.

The Genesis of a Career Expert

Aricia’s expertise didn’t come out of thin air. Her journey started by working with individuals laid off from large corporations, where she noticed intriguing patterns. Some people effortlessly found new jobs, while others struggled. This observation led her to write a book titled “Unlocking the Secrets of the Successful Career Seeker.”

Today, she shares one of the book’s core principles, which is about having faith in yourself and recognizing your brilliance. Confidence in your abilities and the belief that you bring value to the table is a mindset that attracts employers.

Transitioning Fields and Soft Skills

Aricia highlights the seismic shifts happening in the job market, driven by advancements like AI. Fields like data entry and translation are undergoing transformation, leaving many professionals pondering their career options. This is not limited to one sector; it’s a challenge faced by various job seekers.

Hidden Skills and Gathering Evidence

One of Aricia’s recommendations is to recognize the multitude of skills that often go unnoticed. Her podcast with Beverly Smith explores this topic further. She advises job seekers to gather evidence of their accomplishments, from certifications to thank you notes. This repository becomes a treasure trove that can redirect your career path.

Character Traits: The True Key to Success

Aricia highlights that character traits, also known as soft skills, are what truly set you apart. Skills are essential, but it’s your character traits that leave a lasting impression. Traits like punctuality extend beyond just being on time; they reflect your reliability, responsibility, and respect.

Character Traits in Action

Your character traits come into play even before you enter the interview room. How you interact with the receptionist, how you handle the waiting period, and how you engage with everyone along the way is part of your interview. Employers consider these subtle cues.

The Value of References

References are not just names on a page; they play a significant role in showcasing your character traits. When references can provide real-world examples of your punctuality, communication skills, and conflict resolution abilities, it gives you a considerable advantage.

The Power of Follow-Up and Conflict Resolution

Two character traits that often stand out are the ability to follow up and manage conflict. Many people avoid these aspects, making those proficient in them a rarity. Demonstrating your excellence in these areas can be a game-changer in the hiring process.

In conclusion, while job descriptions often focus on skills, your character traits – your soft skills – can be the secret ingredient that lands you the job. Embrace these traits, reflect on them, gather evidence, and ensure that your references can vouch for them. It’s your character that sets you apart and makes you a memorable and attractive candidate. Your journey in the job market is not solely about skills; it’s about who you are and the unique qualities you bring to the table. So, harness your character traits and go out there to shine in your career quest.

If you found this insightful, feel free to reach out to Aricia Shaffer for any questions or further guidance on your career journey.

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You’ve Been Asking The Wrong Question

Hello, aspiring professionals! I’m Aricia Shaffer, Master Career Strategist, and this is “Discover Your Calling.” Today, we delve into the profound impact of asking the right questions and how it can steer your career journey in the right direction.

The Wrong Question, The Wrong Path

Have you ever found yourself asking why something doesn’t make sense in your career or life? I recently watched an episode of Madam Secretary where she grappled with a puzzling situation. The key advice she received was transformative – it’s not about asking “why” or “why not”; it’s about asking “how.” This revelation mirrors the timeless wisdom in Hamlet’s dilemma of “to be or not to be.”

The Power of Powerful Questions

Many wonder about the value of working with a career coach or consultant. One significant benefit is the art of asking powerful questions. These questions, often challenging and insightful, enable you to perceive things from a fresh perspective. The transformative answers you generate can unveil unexpected possibilities and reshape your career outlook.

Overcoming the Self-Operative Challenge

While working with a coach provides an external perspective, how can you replicate this process in your day-to-day life? It’s akin to performing brain surgery on yourself – challenging but not impossible. The key lies in stepping into the observer position, as Eckhart Tolle advocates, tapping into the awareness behind your thought process.

Journaling for Career Clarity

Journaling is a powerful tool, but its effectiveness depends on the approach. To gain career clarity, consider creating a personalized scavenger hunt. Collect your achievements – job interviews, certifications, recommendations, diplomas – and organize them chronologically. This not only boosts confidence but also serves as a repository of accomplishments that offer clues about your desired career path.

Reflecting on Achievements

As you uncover these treasures, take a moment to reflect. Hold them in your hands and relive the pride and sense of accomplishment. Capture these reflections in a journal or, better yet, record a video on your phone. Beyond reliving the emotions, explore the why behind each achievement, the opportunities it opened, and any funny or interesting stories associated with it.

Leveraging Self-Reflection in Your Career

Recording yourself answering these prompts can be an enlightening experience. Play it back and analyze your facial expressions and intonations, as if you were an observer. Notice what lights you up and what drains you. This self-reflection is a valuable tool in guiding your job search. If something brings you joy, incorporate it into your work; if it drains you, consider avoiding it.

Conclusion: Be the Observer of Your Own Journey

In closing, adopting the role of an observer in your life can reveal profound insights. Try these techniques, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences. In a couple of weeks, I’ll be back with more ideas to guide you on your journey of discovering your calling. Until then, embrace the power of asking the right questions and be the observer of your own life. Your career potential awaits!

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You’ve been asking the wrong question all along

Asking the wrong question can waste a LOT of time and ultimately lead you in the wrong direction. One of the reasons talking with professional is so valuable is considering answers to the right questions – seeing things in a new way. So how can you do that for yourself? That’s what we’ll cover in today’s show. If you’d like to work with me, please reach out to me at ariciashaffer.com/contact

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Mastering Career Transitions: A Guide to Navigating Change in the Modern Workplace

Introduction:

Greetings, I’m Aricia Shaffer, a Master Career Strategist, and welcome to “Discover Your Calling.” Today, we delve into the essential strategies for staying ahead in the rapidly evolving landscape of employment.

Embracing Change in Today’s Job Market:

In a recent conversation with a discontented client, the question arose: “When is the best time to prepare for your next career move?” The days of lifetime employment at a single company, complete with pensions, are fading, and loyalty between employers and employees has transformed. Adapting to this shift is crucial, and the answer to the client’s question becomes clear—it’s always a good time to be prepared and vigilant.

The New Era of Career Exploration:

Unlike the past, where individuals often stuck with one job for their entire lives, today’s workforce has more choices and opportunities. Remote work has opened up a new world, enabling professionals to work globally without physical proximity. The pace of change is faster, with startups soaring or fizzling, and significant corporations being acquired. The advent of AI, tech advancements, and shifts in medicine and education contribute to a world in constant flux.

Adapting to Change: A Focus on Soft Skills:

Many professionals feel their skills are becoming obsolete due to these rapid changes. However, while hard skills may age, soft skills like teamwork, communication, and dedication are gaining immense value. Employers recognize the importance of individuals who work well with others and genuinely care about their work.

Strategies for Success in a Dynamic World:Innovate within Your Field: Embrace change and think creatively about how emerging trends impact your industry. Connect with visionaries who explore possibilities beyond current trends.Network Effectively: Stay engaged with professionals in your field to stay informed about job opportunities, emerging trends, and expanding companies. Building a network can provide early access to information and recommendations.Showcase Your Soft Skills: Demonstrate your soft skills through compelling stories that highlight your contributions. Share specific instances where your communication, empathy, or creative problem-solving positively impacted your company’s success.Conclusion:

In the face of uncertainty, being ready for the next big career move requires seeing possibilities instead of fearing change. By staying adaptable, continuously updating your skills, and showcasing your soft skills, you position yourself for success in an ever-changing job market.

Join me in future episodes as we delve deeper into strategies for discovering your calling. Until then, remember to keep exploring the boundless possibilities ahead.

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How do I know when it’s time to get ready for my next career move – and how exactly do I do that?

It’s so hard to know when to leave your job and look for another one. There are a lot of “what if’s” that come up. The good news – and the bad – is that things have changed and continue to evolve. I have clients who are taking month long vacations and coming back to their job and others who are leap-frogging up the ladder and it’s because of those changes. How can you be ready and how can you make sure your next career is better than your last one? Tune in to today’s show for insights. If you need more help as you consider new fields, I have a workshop starting in November. Please reach out to me at ariciashaffer.com/contact to learn more.

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Navigating Career Transitions in a Rapidly Changing World: Tips from Master Career Strategist

Are you feeling stuck in your current job and considering a career change? In the dynamic landscape of today’s employment field, being prepared for change is crucial. Join me, Aricia Sahffer, Master Career Strategist, on a journey to discover how you can navigate the ever-evolving world of employment.

1. Embracing Change in the Modern Workplace

In a bygone era, loyalty between employer and employee was the norm, with many individuals spending their entire careers at a single company. However, times have changed, and the traditional job security associated with pensions is no longer the standard. Today, the key is to be prepared for change continually.

2. The Shift to Remote Work and Global Opportunities

With the advent of remote work, the job market has expanded globally. Unlike the past, individuals can work for employers on the other side of the world without ever meeting in person. This shift not only opens up new opportunities but also requires a different set of skills to thrive in a virtual work environment.

3. Adapting to Rapid Changes and Upskilling

The pace of change in today’s world is unprecedented, with startups rising and falling, companies merging, and technological advancements transforming industries. To thrive in this environment, it’s essential to stay adaptable and continuously update your skills. However, the focus has shifted from hard skills to the invaluable nature of soft skills.

4. The Rise of Soft Skills

While hard skills may become outdated, soft skills such as teamwork, effective communication, and dedication have become increasingly valuable. Employers express a preference for individuals who can collaborate, communicate clearly, and genuinely care about their work. Soft skills are the new currency in a job market where adaptability is key.

5. Strategies for Success in a Changing Landscape

a. Innovate within Your Field:
Embrace innovation by exploring how changes in your industry can be leveraged for success. Connect with visionaries who see possibilities beyond the current trends.

b. Network Effectively:
Stay engaged with professionals in your field to stay informed about job opportunities, emerging trends, and expanding companies. Building a network can provide early access to information and recommendations for potential positions.

c. Showcase Your Soft Skills:
Demonstrate your soft skills through compelling stories that highlight your contributions. Share specific instances where your communication, empathy, or creative problem-solving skills positively impacted your company’s success.

Conclusion

In a world where uncertainty is inevitable, the key to a successful career lies in embracing change and seeing possibilities instead of fearing them. By staying adaptable, continuously upskilling, and showcasing your soft skills, you can position yourself for success in a rapidly changing job market.

Join me in a couple of weeks for more insights on discovering your calling. Until then, keep exploring the possibilities that lie ahead in your career journey.

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