At the very beginning, when I set up the CBS Career Center, I quickly noticed a key issue faced by students. It wasn't about their academic skills or knowledge. The real challenge was what I termed being life-skillful. This concept encompasses the abilities and mindsets needed for navigating life's ups and downs.
To be resilient means more than just bouncing back from setbacks. It involves taking a moment to reflect on what life throws our way, especially during tough times. This reflection is crucial. It requires individuals to pause and truly consider their current situations and feelings. It’s about being present in your own life.
Many people think happiness is tied to external factors. They believe they would feel more fulfilled if they earned more money, held a different job title, or had a better boss.
This mindset leads them to chase after things that seem to promise happiness. However, this pursuit often results in a constant state of searching for something that may not even bring true joy.
In my interactions with seasoned professionals, I often find a common theme. They have dedicated so much time to their work and external responsibilities that they have lost touch with their true selves. They struggle to recognize what truly matters to them beyond their job or title.
To be well-rounded and fit for life as we move forward, we need to create new paths. This requires a mindset shift. We should approach our experiences more openly, allowing for greater flexibility rather than clinging to outdated beliefs or attitudes that no longer serve us.
An important first step is to challenge the beliefs we hold that may not be helping us. We often accept thoughts and ideas without questioning their validity. By examining these beliefs, we can identify which ones are holding us back.
It is crucial to remember that every problem carries the seed of a solution. The goal isn't merely to eliminate problems but to understand why we allow ourselves to remain stuck in them. We must recognize our own role in this process and be willing to take the necessary steps to move forward.