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Guest Essayist: Jennifer Scott - info@spiritfinder.org Spiritfinder.org
Finding an Exciting New Path: Turning Crisis into Opportunity
It’s often said that “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade,” but turning a less-than-ideal situation into something positive isn’t always that easy. It takes effort, planning, and perseverance. Today, Virtuous Consulting Services, LLC™ has some tips and resources to help you reach your goals, no matter how unattainable they may seem.
The Key to Positive Change
A determined outlook is easy to maintain when life is going well, but first, you must deal with your negative emotions when life isn’t fair. No one can think clearly while in a negative frame of mind. It’s okay to experience sadness or anger from time to time, but remember, that’s only part of what you’re feeling. Counselors typically recommend just casually observing any negative thoughts without acting on them. Think of strong, negative emotions as temporary.
More Tips for Positive Change
You’ll notice that once you’re more positive, you’re also open to learning positive habits. Finding a bit of lightness in life is easier when you see the good. You see that picking up hobbies, getting in shape, or changing careers are all worth a try.
It’s said that you need to be the change you want to see in the world, and it’s true. You can only control your own thoughts and actions. If you feel bad, picking up healthier habits like eating more nutritious food and exercising can boost the natural chemicals in your brain, alleviating your mood naturally.
An easy way to begin to exercise is by walking. Regular walking can be a great way to benefit your health. Start by looking at a walk score map of your area. You can easily spot the best places nearby to go for a walk.
Restart in a New Place
Sometimes new surroundings make change easier. Whether you choose to move around the block or to another state, consider finding a new place to call home. Look at rentals in the areas you are considering to help determine which places are best suited for your financial and psychological needs.
Change Careers
You may realize that your current employment isn’t for you anymore. In that case, it’s time to begin searching for your next opportunity. If you’re looking for a resume creator, take advantage of free templates to create a standout resume in minutes. After all, an up-to-date resume will help you put your best foot forward when applying to new jobs.
Be Your Own Boss
Whether it’s caused by commuting, working long hours for little pay, or another reason, many people feel unfulfilled in their respective jobs. But there are solutions if you go with the flow. The first thing you can do to feel happier during hardships is doing what makes you happy, even if you think you don’t have time.
Other people go one step further and turn hobbies into side gigs that give them something to look forward to after work. It’s even possible that your side gig will grow enough to allow you to quit. You can start by writing or selling crafts. If you enjoy the culinary arts, you could do a catering business or even teach cooking. Your limits are only what you want to achieve most with your time.
Establish Your Company
Regardless of which business idea appeals to you, forming a business entity helps keep your business and personal assets separated, helping lower your tax liability. You need to find the right one, however. You can choose to form a corporation or a limited liability company, as both will protect you from business liabilities or debts. However, corporations are bigger, have shareholders, and require more record-keeping.
When forming a company, you’ll want to write out a business plan that sets forth your intentions for operation. Though you may revisit this document later to revise it, you’ll want an uneditable version to distribute to potential investors. Fortunately, a Google Doc can quickly be converted to a PDF, making it the ideal medium for creating and saving your business plan. And because it’s stored in the cloud, you can work on it from anywhere with internet access.
Mindset and Overcoming Hardship
Overcoming hardships can be challenging, of course, but it’s far more likely with the right mindset. Try out these tips for yourself and do your best to stay positive, whether that means changing jobs or starting your own business. You can do this!
If you are looking for guidance to make a change either personally or professionally, consider working with Virtuous Consulting Services, LLC™!
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Guest Essayist: Jennifer Scott - info@spiritfinder.org Spiritfinder.org
The Ultimate Moving Checklist for a Smooth Career-Related Relocation
Relocating for a career change can be both exciting and overwhelming as there are so many things to consider. While the process may seem daunting, with the right approach, you can make the transition as smooth as possible without going over budget or losing your sanity.
Here are some tips to help you successfully pull off a career-related relocation, brought to you below by Virtuous Consulting Services, LLC™.
Consider the Timing
Timing is everything when it comes to relocating for a career change. If possible, try to time your move to coincide with the end of your lease or when the real estate market is slow. This will give you more flexibility in terms of finding a new home and negotiating rental rates. You should also consider the season in which you’re moving, as peak moving times can be more expensive and stressful.
Plan Ahead
Relocating for your career requires careful planning. Make a detailed checklist of tasks to complete before, during, and after your move, like researching job opportunities and notifying utility companies. Breaking the process down into manageable steps can help you reduce stress and ensure everything is taken care of before you leave.
Find a Job
If you’re relocating for a career change, finding a new job should be your top priority. Start by researching companies in your new area and reaching out to recruiters or hiring managers.
You can also use online job boards and networking sites to connect with potential employers. If you’re unable to secure a job before you move, consider taking on freelance work or contract positions in the interim to help cover your expenses. You can also work with Virtuous Consulting Services, LLC™ for consulting that can help you develop your career.
Register Your LLC Business
If you’re moving your LLC business, it’s important to register with the state using a formation service. This will ensure that you’re in compliance with local laws and regulations and can avoid costly fines or penalties down the road. Make sure to research the registration process in your new state well in advance of your move.
Set a Budget
When relocating for a career change, it’s crucial to create a budget beforehand. Include expenses like transportation, lodging, and living costs in your new area, as well as possible unforeseen costs such as medical bills or car repairs. By creating a reasonable budget, you can prevent overspending and lower financial pressure.
Find a New Rental Home
Finding a new rental home in your new city can be challenging, but there are many online resources available to help you with your search. For instance, if you’re relocating to Rochester, New York, you can start by checking online rental listings to get an idea of what’s available in your budget. You can also work with a real estate agent who specializes in rentals to help you find the perfect place.
Work with a Real Estate Agent
A real estate agent can be invaluable when relocating for work, offering insights into the local market and guiding you through the process. Look for an agent experienced in working with clients who are relocating and can provide comprehensive support throughout your transition. Negotiating rental or purchase agreements are also part of their expertise.
Stay Organized
Staying organized is key to successfully pulling off a career-related relocation. Keep all important documents, such as your lease agreement or employment contracts, in a safe and easily accessible location. Use a moving checklist to keep track of tasks and deadlines, and make sure to stay on top of any appointments or meetings related to your move.
Talk to Your Children
If you have children, it’s important to talk to them about the move well in advance. Help them get excited about the new opportunities and experiences that await them in their new home. You can also involve them in the process of packing and preparing for the move to help them feel more involved and invested in the transition.
Relocating for a career change is an exciting opportunity to start fresh, but it can also be a stressful experience. However, by approaching the situation with the right mindset and taking the necessary steps, you can make the transition as smooth as possible. Factors such as timing, planning ahead, and finding a new job, etc., can all contribute to a successful relocation without excessive financial strain or overwhelming anxiety.
If you are looking for guidance to make a change either personally or professionally, consider working with Virtuous Consulting Services, LLC™!
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Guest Essayist: Jennifer Scott - info@spiritfinder.org Spiritfinder.org
Innovative Benefits To Keep Your Employees Happy and Thriving
Employee benefits have long been a way to attract and retain top talent and companies, but the standard perks that were once enough no longer get the job done. Organizations are now looking for innovative benefits that directly impact the lives of their team members. Whether it’s providing hybrid work options, career coaching, or on-site daycare, your company can raise the bar and build your strongest team ever. Today, Virtuous Consulting Services, LLC™ shares some ideas to help you get off to a strong start!
Making Your Benefits Document
First of all, having a document that details your employee benefits can be a game-changer when it comes to recruiting and retaining valued employees. Put together a comprehensive, easy-to-understand benefits document that lists all potential benefits, eligibility requirements, and restrictions.
Hybrid Work Options
Remote work has become the norm in recent years, with many organizations adopting a hybrid structure for their employees. The new challenge is to strike a balance between remote and in-person work.
Hybrid work options give employees the flexibility to work remotely or from the office, depending on their needs (as well as the company’s). This also saves team members the cost and time of commuting, making them feel better rested and more productive. That said, consider requiring employees to work in the office at least two or three times weekly to encourage collaboration.
Fertility Benefits
Infertility seems to be more and more common, and treatments like IVF can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Offering fertility benefits shows employees that their employer cares about their well-being and personal lives.
This kind of benefit can cover anything from consultations to treatments and everything in between. You can give your team members the support they need to start a family, ultimately making them feel valued by your organization.
Career and Job Coaching Programs
If you want to help your employees advance in their careers, improve their skills, and boost their knowledge, offering career coaching programs is the way to go. Job coaching can also extend to mentorship within the company so that you can keep your best people with you for longer.
Further, offering coaching can go a long way toward raising team morale and job satisfaction; it gives your team members the opportunity to learn and grow in their current positions while planning for their future.
Birthday PTO
If your work culture values work-life balance, giving your employees a day off work on their birthdays is a fantastic idea. You can give one birthday PTO day to each team member as a meaningful gesture to demonstrate that you acknowledge them on their special days. Talk about a serious morale boost! And if you decide to hold in-office celebrations from time to time, why not add a dash of fun and creativity by sending out invites? There are hassle-free templates for your invites that you can use for free.
Referral Bonuses
Referral bonuses can do wonders for incentivizing employees and bringing quality people into your organization. You might give employees a cash bonus, legitimate retail/reward cards, travel perks, and more for referring successful hires. Roughly 48% of businesses rely on referrals, so it’s no surprise that so many companies are willing to reward their staff for helping them find the best talent in the industry.
Daycare On-Site
Daycare is expensive and time-consuming for many employees, not to mention a burden that’s hard for some people to manage. Providing on-site daycare means that you’re offering an impactful benefit that any parent would appreciate. It can also attract a fantastic roster of new talent to your company while showcasing your commitment to fostering healthy families.
Wrapping Up
Recruiting the best talent is not just about free coffee or parking anymore. It’s the little things that can make a significant difference in the lives and careers of employees. The ideas above are a few of the countless benefits to consider offering your team members going forward. It all comes down to making your employees feel valued and appreciated. And it’s never too late to consider new strategies for doing just that!
If you are looking for guidance to make a change either personally or professionally, consider working with Virtuous Consulting Services, LLC™!
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Guest Essayist: Jennifer Scott - info@spiritfinder.org Spiritfinder.org
Embrace Diversity: Accessible Workplace for Individuals with Disabilities
Embracing diversity is not just a moral imperative but a business necessity. Building an inclusive workplace, especially for individuals with disabilities, brings a myriad of perspectives, fostering innovation and creativity. This guide shared below by Virtuous Consulting Services, LLC™ outlines key strategies for employers to attract and support talented candidates with disabilities.
Revamp Recruitment Practices
Transforming recruitment methods is essential in developing an accessible work environment. It's important for employers to make their job postings accessible and comprehensible to all, particularly to individuals with disabilities. This means utilizing user-friendly formats and straightforward language in job advertisements. Forming alliances with disability-focused organizations can be highly beneficial. These collaborations offer insights into the unique requirements of disabled candidates, aiding in the refinement of more inclusive recruitment strategies.
Career Planning for Diverse Abilities
A dynamic career growth plan is vital for employees with disabilities. Employers should offer personalized career development paths, recognizing the unique strengths and needs of each individual. Mentorship programs can play a significant role in this, providing guidance and support tailored to the career aspirations of disabled employees. Such initiatives demonstrate an employer's commitment to the long-term success and growth of all its employees, fostering a sense of belonging and motivation.
Support Continuing Education
Continuing education is a key driver of professional development. Employers can enhance their support for employees with disabilities by providing financial assistance for online university programs. This support not only aids in skill development but also shows a commitment to the career progression of these individuals. One potential option is to collaborate with educational institutions to offer specialized courses that align with employees’ career goals, thus creating a pathway for continuous learning and advancement.
Implement Inclusive Language in Job Descriptions
The impact of language in fostering an inclusive workplace is immense. Employers need to carefully formulate their job descriptions, using language that is accessible and inviting to individuals with disabilities. It's important to steer clear of jargon and phrases that might come across as exclusive or discriminatory. Using inclusive language is key in drawing a broader spectrum of skilled candidates. Such language ensures that all potential employees feel valued and respected from the outset.
Cultivate an Inclusive Culture
Creating a workplace culture that values inclusivity is key to attracting and retaining employees with disabilities. Employers need to cultivate a setting where diversity is not just accepted, but celebrated. Regular training on diversity and inclusion, coupled with open communication channels, are crucial in this effort. Ensuring that company policies explicitly demonstrate a dedication to inclusivity is also essential. This type of inclusive environment not only draws in diverse talent but also boosts employee engagement and overall productivity.
Develop Specialized Internship Programs
Internship programs tailored for individuals with disabilities showcase an organization's dedication to inclusivity. These initiatives offer a valuable opportunity for disabled individuals to display their talents. Employers, in turn, get to identify promising future talent through these programs. Such opportunities not only aid in the professional development of participants but also bring diverse viewpoints and creativity into the workplace. These programs strengthen the company's culture, enriching it with varied perspectives and ideas.
Wrapping Up
Attracting and retaining individuals with disabilities demands a dedicated and multifaceted strategy. By adopting the recommended approaches, employers can establish a workplace that champions inclusivity, supporting the professional advancement of employees with disabilities. This effort not only aids in creating a diverse workforce but also fosters innovation and enhances productivity. Embracing diversity transcends societal responsibility, proving to be a vital element in achieving business success. It's essential for organizations to recognize that inclusivity in all its forms is a key to thriving in the modern business landscape.
Virtuous Consulting Services, LLC™ has the coaching and consulting expertise to help your business get ahead. Questions? We’d love to hear from you!
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Guest Essayist: Jason Lewis - jason@strongwell.org
Thriving Amid Adversity: Strategies for Dealing with a Toxic Work Environment
Navigating a toxic work environment is an unfortunate challenge that many professionals encounter at some point in their careers. Such environments can deeply affect mental and emotional well-being, creating a situation that demands immediate attention and action.
Recognizing the signs of toxicity is the initial step toward mitigation, followed by implementing strategies to safeguard your well-being, seeking support, and ultimately considering transitioning to a healthier workplace. Virtuous Consulting Services, LLC™ shares more:
Professional Help as a Pathway to Recovery
When the stress of a toxic work environment leads to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as excessive alcohol consumption, it's crucial to seek professional help. Addiction is a grave consequence of prolonged stress and necessitates comprehensive treatment and support. Among the options for such specialized care, New York rehab centers stand out for their quality services and accessibility.
Most rehabilitation facilities accept health insurance from leading providers, making it easier to access the care needed. Before committing to a facility, verifying your insurance coverage and considering factors such as the center's amenities, accreditations, treatment methodologies, location, and feedback from former patients is important. Professional intervention is a critical step toward healing, offering a structured path to recovery.
Identifying Toxicity in the Workplace
The journey to overcoming workplace toxicity begins with spotting its signs. These signs may manifest as overt negative behaviors like bullying, discrimination, and persistent pessimism, or through more subtle cues such as a pervasive culture of fear, unusually high staff turnover, and poor communication channels.
Early identification of these signs enables individuals to take proactive steps toward mitigating their impact, thus preserving their well-being. Recognizing these indicators is essential, as it empowers you to understand the dynamics at play and strategize your approach to navigate these troubled waters effectively.
Setting Boundaries for Self-Preservation
A critical defense mechanism against the effects of a toxic work culture is the establishment of personal boundaries. This involves identifying behaviors and situations that you find unacceptable and firmly asserting your limits.
It's about creating a protective shield around your well-being, ensuring that work stress does not infiltrate every aspect of your life. Whether it's opting out of participating in office gossip, setting clear work-life balance norms, or addressing disrespectful behavior head-on, establishing these boundaries is vital for maintaining your mental health and signaling to others your expectations regarding treatment.
The Role of Self-Care
In the face of workplace toxicity, prioritizing self-care is non-negotiable. Self-care practices vary widely, from engaging in physical activities and pursuing hobbies that uplift your spirits to ensuring adequate rest and relaxation. These activities are not just forms of escapism but are crucial for building resilience against stress; they enhance your capacity to cope with the demands of a toxic work environment and improve your overall life satisfaction.
Leveraging Support Networks
The power of support in a toxic work environment cannot be overstated. Solidarity with coworkers who understand your situation or guidance from mentors outside your organization can provide fresh perspectives and coping strategies.
These support networks serve as a foundation for emotional support, validating your experiences and reinforcing that you’re not alone. Whether through formal support groups or informal gatherings, nurturing these connections can significantly enhance your ability to manage workplace challenges.
Considering an Exit Strategy
Ultimately, the most effective way to escape the clutches of a toxic work environment may be to leave it altogether. Developing an exit strategy empowers you to take charge of your professional journey, seeking opportunities in environments that value health, respect, and positive culture.
This might mean updating your resume, expanding your professional network, or acquiring new skills to increase your marketability. While the prospect of changing jobs can be daunting, it represents a crucial step toward a healthier professional life and overall well-being.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with a toxic work environment is undoubtedly challenging but not insurmountable. You can navigate through these difficulties by recognizing the signs of toxicity, setting personal boundaries, and plotting your exit. Each of these strategies offers a beacon of hope, guiding you toward surviving and thriving in the face of workplace adversity.
Remember that your mental and emotional health is paramount; no job should ever compromise your well-being. Taking proactive steps to address toxicity in the workplace is a testament to your resilience and a pivotal move toward securing a happier, healthier professional future.
If you are looking for guidance to make a change either personally or professionally, consider working with Virtuous Consulting Services, LLC™!
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Guest Essayist: Stevie Murphy - Stevie.Murphy@believe-big.com
Charting New Horizons: A Strategic Blueprint For Career Transitions
Career transitions represent pivotal moments in a professional’s journey, presenting both challenges and opportunities for growth. Whether driven by desire for change or necessitated by external factors, the move to a new career path requires clear vision, careful planning, and resilience. This article offers a roadmap to navigate these transitions with confidence, focusing on crucial strategies such as introspection, research, goal formulation, mentorship, and adaptability to ensure success in the evolving landscape of career development.
The Foundation of Transition: Introspection
At the heart of any successful career change lies a period of deep introspection. Assessing your skills, interests, and values is the first step in identifying potential career paths that align with your personal strengths and passions. This reflective process is vital in building a strong foundation for your transition, ensuring that your next career move not only aligns with your professional aspirations but also resonates with your personal identity.
The Role of In-Depth Research
The cornerstone of informed decision-making in career transitions is comprehensive research. An exploration into various industries, potential employers, and specific roles that spark your interest is imperative. This investigative phase arms you with critical insights into market demands, career growth prospects, and necessary competencies, facilitating strategic decisions that position you effectively in your chosen field.
Goal-Setting as a Guiding Compass
The articulation of specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals acts as a guiding compass throughout the career transition. These clearly defined objectives provide direction, maintain focus, and foster
motivation, serving as benchmarks for progress and enabling adjustments toyour strategy when necessary. Goal-setting is an essential practice that transforms the vision of your career transition into actionable steps.
Unlocking Potential Through Mentorship
Mentorship emerges as a transformative force during career transitions, offering personalized guidance, support, and industry insights. Mentors play a critical role in helping you acquire new competencies, formulate strategic career plans, and navigate the complexities of the job market. By tapping into the experience and networks of a mentor, you can significantly accelerate your growth, enhance your decision-making capabilities, and navigate the transition with greater assurance. Unlock your potential with Virtuous Consulting Services, LLC™, offering tailored coaching and mentoring solutions to help you achieve your personal and professional goals.
Networking: Expanding Your Professional Ecosystem
Building and nurturing a robust professional network is invaluable in unlocking new opportunities and gaining deeper industry insights. Engagement in industry events, participation in online communities, and connecting with professionals in your field opens avenues for collaboration, mentorship, and potential job leads. Effective networking goes beyond mere contact collection; it involves cultivating meaningful relationships that support mutual growth and opportunity discovery.
Emphasizing Versatile Skill Development
In the rapidly changing job market, the development of versatile skills applicable across various industries and roles is more important than ever. This strategic focus on skill enhancement not only boosts your marketability but also equips you for future challenges and opportunities. Continuous learning and skill acquisition are crucial for maintaining competitiveness and adaptability, ensuring you remain relevant in any career trajectory you pursue. Embracing a culture of lifelong learning and seeking out opportunities for professional development can significantly enhance your career prospects and personal growth.
Keeping Pace with Industry Evolution
A proactive approach to staying informed about the latest industry trends, technological innovations, and market dynamics is essential for thriving in the modern professional landscape. This ongoing education allows you to anticipate shifts, seize opportunities, and make timely adjustments to your career strategy, keeping you at the forefront of your field. By regularly engaging with industry news, attending relevant conferences, and participating in professional development courses, you can ensure that your skills and knowledge are up-to-date and aligned with current industry standards.
Fostering a Resilient and Optimistic Outlook
Cultivating a positive and proactive mindset is paramount in navigating the uncertainties of career transitions. Viewing setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth fosters resilience, driving you to persist in your goals. An optimistic outlook, coupled with a readiness to act, propels you toward achieving your career objectives, transforming challenges into stepping stones for success. This resilience and optimism not only enhance your ability to navigate career transitions but also contribute to a more fulfilling and rewarding professional journey, encouraging you to embrace change with confidence and determination.
Navigating a career transition is a multifaceted endeavor that demands a strategic and holistic approach. By engaging in introspection, conducting thorough research, finding a mentor, and maintaining a positive mindset, you lay the groundwork for a successful and fulfilling career change. Embrace the journey of career transition as an opportunity for personal and professional growth, approaching it with determination, flexibility, and an eye.
If you are looking for guidance to make a change either personally or professionally, consider working with Virtuous Consulting Services, LLC™!