|
Your Core Themes
Core Themes are not what you'd like to accomplish. They are those truly essential elements that satisfy your search for real meaning and purpose — the things you are passionate about. Getting those elements into your work and life are the keys.
What are your Core Themes? What must you have in your work to be truly satisfied?
Some people answer in generalities — that they need to help people, for instance. That's fine, but you need to go deeper. Is it a need or a desire?
Maybe one of your Core Themes is lifelong personal fitness or spirituality. Maybe you deeply, truly want to make a lot of money. Or perhaps you feel a drive to help the environment. The answers are deeply personal, and there are no wrong answers as long as you are true to yourself. Following are some examples of possible Core Themes:
Wealth Building (see menu to find more info about these steps)
Spirituality
Creativity
Integrity
Intelligence
How many Core Themes should you have? As many as you can truly identify – maybe twelve, maybe two. But remember, there are lots of things you can do, but only a few things you really want to do. Keep in mind that Core Themes are those critical elements that lead you to a greater sense of personal and professional happiness.
Core Theme Litmus Test
- Is this a non-negotiable need?
- What would happen if this Core Theme were not realized?
- What meaning does it have for me?
- Why is this important?
- Where does this come from in my life?
- How would my life be different if I were already living this Core Theme?
|
Above all, don't be too practical in putting together your list! This is not an exercise in quickly finding a new job that makes you happy and still pays a six-figure salary. This is about identifying your essential values, needs and interests.
For more in-depth help creating your CoreThemes list read Chapter 8 in the Core Themes book.
|
Career Case Studies