I Dont Feel Inspired By Anything. How Do I Find A New Career That I Love

“I Don’t Feel Inspired By Anything. How Do I Find A New Career That I Love” Help from our Community “I Don’t Feel Inspired By Anything. How Do I Find A New Career That I Love?” * Nick's worked hard to become a success in an industry he was never particularly passionate about; now he's feeling burnt out. How do you plan a leap into something new, when you're not convinced that anything really fires you up? What's your career history and current job? When I left university, I fell into working for an events company that specialised in floral displays. A few years later, I started my own floristry business, which I've had for the past five years. How do you feel about your work? I enjoy the sense of freedom that comes from being my own boss, and the buzz from doing a good job. Getting great feedback for something I've created myself is an amazing feeling, and when I started my business I was really happy. I've created floral displays for huge events, some of which have attracted national media attention. I'm the recommended florist for some prestigious venues, and I'm also proud to have worked with clients who are household names. But running a business is tough, with a lot of extreme highs and lows. Never knowing where my next job is going to come from can be very stressful, particularly when I've got a family to support. When you're the one in charge, the work never stops â€" if I'm not organising displays, I'm doing behind-the-scenes admin. There's also a lot of hard physical work, which I mostly do alone, during long days that begin with eye-wateringly early starts. I've started to feel burnt out from it all. I used to enjoy keeping up with floral trends, but now my knowledge isn't what it should be, and my displays are starting to look outdated. I feel frustrated by that, but not enough to want to learn more. I've stopped enjoying my work, and it feels like I've lost all interest in my business. What would you like to be doing instead? I'd really like to feel a sense of calm and stability from my work. I miss working with people, chatting the day away with friendly colleagues. I like answering questions, using my knowledge to guide people towards a solution. I recently took a counselling course, because I thought talking to people and trying to help them could be a good next step for me. But that didn't work out, as I've found I empathise too much with people who are going through stressful situations. Before I found floristry, I wanted to be an actor. But I gave that up because I've always struggled with low confidence, so the constant auditioning and harsh feedback didn't suit me. Now I feel like I'm completely out of ideas. What's the biggest obstacle in your way? I don't feel inspired by anything. And I'm scared that this means that no career exists that would suit my skills and personality. I've never known what I wanted to do with my life. I started my business because floristry was all I knew, not because I love it. I don't have much experience in anything other than floristry, so I don't know what to expect from something new. I'm worried that if I did manage to find a more stable job, I'd get bored too quickly. Starting my business is the bravest thing I've ever done, and I don't want to regret giving it up. But I've stopped taking any pride in my achievements, and my confidence is slipping away. I envy my friends, who are happy and comfortable with what they do. They also seem to have plenty of free time to do what they like. That's a dream scenario for me. How do I start exploring career paths that could inspire me, when I don't know how or where to begin, or if it's even possible? Can you help Nick? Have you been in a similar situation, or are you in the same boat right now? How do you think Nick could move his shift forwards? Do you know anyone he could talk to? Share your thoughts in the comments below and click the thumbs-up button to show your support.

Katie Walsh embraces new role as Aintree ambassador

Katie Walsh embraces new role as Aintree ambassador Brother Ruby may have been leading jockey at the Cheltenham Festival for eight of the last 10 years, but Katie Walsh is relishing her new role as Ladies Day ambassador at Aintree for the Grand National meeting. Brother Ruby may have been leading jockey at the Cheltenham Festival for eight of the last 10 years, but Katie Walsh is relishing her new role as Ladies Day ambassador at Aintree for the Grand National meeting. With anticipation mounting and bookmakers like Coral already starting their coverage of the three-day event, which takes place at the Merseyside venue between April 9-11, Walsh, who began her own career in the saddle in 2003, recently blogged about this new position. “I was last at Aintree back in December for the Betfred Becher Chase Day,” wrote Walsh. “I didn’t have a ride that day instead I was embracing my new role as a Ladies Day ambassador for the Jockey Club. “After doing a few interviews in front of the camera, I watched Sam Waley-Cohen bring Oscar Time to victory from the unfamiliar view of the Aintree Grandstands. I’d be lying if I said I wouldn’t want to have been on the other side of the barriers that day, but it was nice to see a race like that from a different perspective. “It was also the first time I’d seen the finished versions of the Ladies Day advertising campaign that I’d last been to Aintree for to film back in July. It’s certainly not every day you’re stood in front of a 30-foot banner of yourself, especially not whilst in a dress and on a horse! “I can’t say I ever expected to see myself doing something like that, but then if I’d have based my career around eventualities that I’d have expected, I wouldn’t have achieved half of what I have to date! The advert looked great and it made me remember the special connection I have with this prestigious racecourse.” Reminiscing about her previous exploits at the Merseyside racecourse, Walsh added: “Coming third aboard Seabass in the 2012 Grand National is a moment that I will never, ever forget. It still doesn’t feel real (even three years down the line!) when I say that I have finished higher than any other female jockey, competing in the Grand National.” Check out her performance with BBC commentary from that day below: “I’d love to be able to write down exactly how it feels coming round the Elbow to the roar of over 70,000 people, yet if I tried, I don’t think I’d do it justice,” Walsh continued. “One thing I can say is that Aintree provides a spotlight on to this sport like no other racecourse in the world, in my opinion.   “From April 9-11 this year, this famous course has will have a feel to it that can be compared to no other, and not just on the Saturday! “Ladies Day has always been one of my favourite days in the racing calendar, both as a spectator and a jockey. It combines the thrill and excitement of racing with the compel and intrigue of fashion, yet it does so with outstanding results. “I feel privileged to be a Ladies Day ambassador in a year which sees so many exciting introductions and changes. It is a day that defines both racing and fashion and I feel the advertising campaign that I’m a part of, gives an exciting preview of what is to come this April.”

5 Ways to Shake Off Your Job Interview Anxiety

5 Ways to Shake Off Your Job Interview Anxiety Nervesâ€"they affect the best of us. Even politicians, big-shot business professionals and other world leaders have experienced some form of anxiety and stress in their life time; so dont beat yourself up too much if you feel extremely nervous before or during a job interview. Its completely normal. But that doesn’t mean that you have to let your nerves be all-consumingâ€"after all you could jeopardize your chances of employment if youre too jittery. That said there are several (and simple) things you can do to shake off any pre-interview anxiety and land your dream job. To learn the top 5, continue reading below. 1) Plan  ahead: This cannot be stressed enough. All too often job applicants get knots in the pits of their stomachs because they dont know what to expect. Not knowing what kind of curve balls employers can throw at you can be pretty nerve wrecking. But an easy way to walk into your scheduled interview with confidence is to plan ahead and think through all of the worst-case scenarios. This includes not only formulating answers to common interview questions such as why do you want to work here? and why should we hire you instead of the other applicants? but also jotting down answers to the questions you fear the most. For example, is there a particular question that you are just dreading that the interviewer will ask? If so, face your greatest fear and try coming up with an answer that is both honest and will reflect you in a positive light. This is not to say that you should memorize all of your answers however; after all some variant of these questions may be asked and you dont want to appear robotic in your responses. But having some idea of what you could say is a sure fire way to get rid of some nerves. You also want to make sure that you do some thorough research on the companyâ€"make sure to know a tad bit about the companys history, some of its latest projects, and recognize the top honchos. Not only will it demonstrate that youre serious about working there but it can also give your answers some substance. 2) Have a  dress rehearsal: Another way to plan ahead and feel more at ease is to have a full-on mock dress rehearsal of the interview. Pick out your outfit, get all of your documents in order and have a friend or relative interview you. Here, your interviewer will be able to help point out your strengths and weakness as well as address any mannerisms you may need to correct; for example, you may use too many informal words like totally and awesome or speak way too quickly which can hinder your chances of getting hired. As part of the dress rehearsal it may also be a good idea to actually take a quick drive-by to where your interview will take place. This can ensure that you dont get lost on the day of (Google Maps is not always reliable) and can give you an opportunity to check out the parking situation. Even if you know where youre going, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to get there on the day of and ask for the interviewers direct phone numberâ€"accidents do happen and if you get into a car collision or there is far more traffic than you anticipate, you need to call immediately and let the interviewer know you will be running late or need to reschedule. 3) Have a  good laugh: They dont say laughter is the best medicine for nothing. Not only has studies proven that laughing can help cure the body of certain diseases and illnesses, but it can also reduce the levels of stress hormones and anxiety. This is because when one laughs, the body releases feel-good chemicals called endorphins. These are the same chemicals that are released when we exercise and the same chemicals that naturally help fight-off depression. So to replace any negative, jittery feelings with positive, confident ones simply fill the hours leading up to the interview with laughter. Go visit your funniest friend or watch that one movie no matter how many times you see it always leaves you in stitches. Or you can even download your favorite comedians stand up onto your iPod and listen to it on your way to the interview. If all fails, you can even make yourself laugh by making a few funny faces in the review mirror or bathroom. 4) Listen to music: Another way to get rid of nerves is to listen to music that will put you either in a tranquil non-stress state or listen to some music that will pump you upâ€"you know, some confidence boosting music that assures you that you are in fact the best. It can help you feel inspired which can in-turn help you dominate in the interview. Make a track list and listen to some motivational (or simply relaxing music) on the drive to the interview and or/while you wait. 5) Be open about nervousness: Lastly, if you start feeling nervous during the interview remember that its ok to admit it. During the beginning of the interview or if you start to stumble on a question, its ok to say something like, I apologize, Im extremely nervous. This is my first interview or Its been quite some time that Ive been in this position. This will only make you appear more human and the interviewer may just be able to relate to you more. Who knows, the interviewer may even be just be as nervous as you are. Author: This guest contribution was submitted by Lenore Holditch, who specializes in writing about top online colleges. Top image: Shutterstock.

Its Hard Out Here For A Twenty Something

Its Hard Out Here For A Twenty Something Have you heard the song, Its Hard Out Here For a Pimp? Watch/Listen to it here  for a refresher. Despite some of the vulgarity and the seeming  irrelevancy  to the twenty something life, there are lessons to be learned here folks! So pay attention, twenty somethings, Im changing the lyrics a little and calling my version, Its Hard Out Here For A Twenty Something. You know its hard out here for a twenty something. When youre trying to get money for the rent. For the happy hours and shopping sprees spent Will put your bank account in a dent. You know its hard out here for a twenty something. When youre trying to get money for the rent. For the happy hours and shopping sprees spent, Will have you calling your fam and friends to vent. In my eyes,  Ive seen and done some crazy things since I graduated, Sometimes Im wondering how the heck Ive made it But Ive gotta keep my head up and keep it together, And smile through the pain, because I wont be young forever. Seen some people cry,  seen some people lie Seen some people do what they have to do to get by But Im not judging cause its just a crazy time in your life And you gotta do what you gotta do to survive. Its all about perspective when it comes down to it Im trying to get paid but thats not all too it Im trying to be someone who makes a difference but its hard out here for a twenty something, So Im praying to God that all this madness wont amount to nothing. You know its hard out here for a twenty something. When youre trying to get money for the rent. For the happy hours and shopping sprees spent Will put your bank account in a dent. You know its hard out here for a twenty something. When youre trying to get money for the rent. For the happy hours and shopping sprees spent, Will have you calling your fam and friends to vent. Okay, so as it turns out, Im not much of a rapper. But the bottom line is its hard out here for a twenty something with an economy that stinks or being far away from  familiar  faces and navigating your way through an uncertain period of your life. So if youre trying to make the most of the craziness that we all go through (and believe it, all of us go through it), good for you! If youre learning some life lessons along the way, even better. And if youre living for the moment with a zest for life and all that life has to offer in the present and for your future, Id say thats best. Its hard out here for a twenty something, so keep your head up twenty somethings; keep your head up.

Sleeping Like A Pro Hack Your Sleep And Win Back Your Productivity CareerMetis.com

Sleeping Like A Pro Hack Your Sleep And Win Back Your Productivity â€" CareerMetis.com According to studies, upwards of 70 millionpeople deal with sleep deprivation or some other sleep disorder.In a world where 9-to-5ers and entrepreneurs alike are routinely working more than 40 hours per week, this is a recipe for disaster that eats into productivity as much as wellness.evalIf you are not getting the right amount of sleep or the best quality of sleep, you will not be able to live up to your potential as a human and your quality of living will take a serious hit. Sleep is fundamental to your health, so you need to take it seriously.As a professional, your process outside of work is just as important as the hours you put in on the clock. If you take care of yourself by getting plenty of fulfilling sleep, you’ll be able to show up to work early and remain focused throughout.There are a few quality ideas that you can put into play when you are looking to hack your sleep and set up a routine sleep schedule. To this end, start out with these points so that your sleep take s its rightful place as a top priority for health and productivity.1) Burn Energy And Stick To Your Sleep RitualIf you can’t go to sleep right away, you need to set your life up so that you are able to burn some energy. Schedule a workout close to bedtime and make sure that you stick to this ritual.It doesn’t have to be a particularly grueling workout â€" you can even just go for a walk or stretch if that suits you.There are lots of yoga posesthat you can use which will help you get a restful sleep that restores you.Make sure that your bedroom is electronics-free if at all possible. Leave the phone outside of the bedroom and ditch the television. When you’re so caught up with the outside world, it’s difficult for you to relax your mind and body and fall asleep.evalCell phones also have blue light, which can hamper your sleep quality and make you wake up sluggish.Consider taking a melatonin supplement before sleep as well, so that you will get much fuller sleep cycles.2) Read And Meditate Before BedWhile you should stay away from electronics, reading before bed can be one of the best decisions that you make.It stimulates your mind in a more relaxing way and can also help you to drift off to a good night’s sleep. Aside from reading, you will get much fuller sleep when you decide to take up meditation.evalMeditation is a great way for you to unload the mental baggage of the day and build your focus.Science backs that meditation is great for your brain and will allow you to better rejuvenate your body as you sleep.3) Be Certain That You Have The Right Sleep EnvironmentFinally, it’s necessary that your sleep arrangement suits you best. Make sure you have a quality mattress and some covers that you will feel great about curling up beneath.Block out light whenever you can, since it will throw off your sleep rhythm. But some curtains and drapes that block the sun out as much as possible so that you’re not tossing and turning all night.If you can’t swin g that, purchase a sleep mask instead.4) Figure Out What Is Stressing YouIt’s important that you also take inventory of your entire life and fix what you can. When you are not able to go to sleep, it might very well be because you have some things in your life that are siphoning mental energy.If you are walking around stressed and burnt out, it can be difficult for you to even get into the relaxed state that comes with trying to go to sleep.When you know what is bothering you, you will be better able to address it and move forward. If you fail to uncover the issue, it will keep permeating beneath the surface, keeping you up at night and making it incredibly difficult for you to doze off.Consider getting in touch with a therapist that can help you out as well. When you set up an appointment with a mental health professional, they will be able to assist you in unpacking the stress and worry that is keeping you up. Sometimes this is a blessing in disguise because figuring out what is stressing you means that you can then do something about it.evalFor instance, if you observe your thoughts and feelings and realize that it is money issues keeping you up, perhaps you will then have the determination to fix it and dig yourself out of a hole.5) Keep A Sleep JournalYou really won’t be able to get the sleep that you need unless you audit your sleep schedule. When you go over your sleep with a fine-toothed comb, you are better able to make alterations and ensure that you’re giving yourself the full 8 hours of sleep that you need each night.When you are documenting the times you are going to bed and waking up, in addition to noting the quality of sleep and figuring out how you can optimize it, you’ll be in good hands and can count on nothing but the best sleep.Sleep specialists often recommend that patients do this, not only so that they can account for their sleep time, but also remember dreams. Working this can help you build your presence to the point that you are not only getting the best sleep around but also able to lucid dream.In addition to journaling, make sure that you learn all that you can about sleep and how you can get the most from it. You should also do what you can to get healthy and stay healthy because it will allow for better sleep that is healthy for you as a whole.evalDon’t hesitate to get in touch with some sleep professionals that can help you out with any sorts of sleep problems you are having as well.So there you have it. Use these tips for sound sleep so that your health is rejuvenated and revitalized. This way, you’ll be a productive professional and a happier human being overall.

Summary Sunday Learn New Ways To Job Search

Summary Sunday Learn New Ways To Job Search Learn New Ways to Job Search Isnt it time you tried out  new ways to job search? Every single one of you reading this is familiar with the basics of searching job boards. Heres the problem, because it is such a  popular method, fairly easy to use and free, its cluttered, clogged andquite frankly, a broken process right now. Learn New Ways to Job Search This is why I write and share articles about new ways of hunting down a new job. The  job search  work-arounds take some time to learn and finessing, but, because they are newer, you wont run into the same black-hole scenarios. These posts were the most popular in my Twitter feed this week. I hope you uncover a new gem that helps you stand out from the sea of same old, same old job seekers! JOB SEARCH 10 Outstanding Ways To Stand Out In A Job Search by William Arruda | Forbes How to Follow Up on Your Job Application by  Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter, MRW | Glassdoor How To Fire Up Your Faltering Job Search by David Shindler | Learning To Leap INTERVIEW Interview Like a Consultant by Steve Levy | Recruiting Inferno 45 Questions to Ask in Your Job Interview by Susan P. Joyce | Job-Hunt.org How To Address Being “Forced Out” During a Job Interview  by Sharlyn Lauby |  HR Bartender TWITTER Personal Learning Networks: Why ( How) to Use Twitter by  Dorlee Michaeli, MBA, LMSW | Social Work Career How to Use Twitter Lists for Business by Aaron Lee | Social Media Examiner OK, I know you arent really a business owner, but this is a fantastic how-to and it absolutely applies to job seekers! MARKETING MATERIALS 3 Great PowerPoint Resumes | Career Cloud CAREER Lack of Leadership Has Created the Skills Gap  by Sharlyn Lauby |  HR Bartender I know this post is meatier than others! I hope youve uncovered helpful information. Please share this with folks you know who would benefit!

DIY work experience How to create your own internship - CareerAlley

DIY work experience How to create your own internship - CareerAlley We may receive compensation when you click on links to products from our partners. In a tough economy, its an employers job market, which means that anyone hiring can afford to pick and choose from the glut of applicants and make wild demands (see, for example, the companies that ask for your Facebook password at the interview). It also means that even entry-level jobs require years of experience, a baffling catch 22 that leaves job-seekers wondering How do I get experience if no one will hire me without experience? The answer, very simply, is internships. Suggested Reading:Create Your Own Future: How to Master the 12 Critical Factors of Unlimited Success Why you want an internship Internships are great for a variety of reasons, but theyre terrible for one big one: You rarely get paid. That said, it isnt always a bad thing. First, it really drives home the point that your labor at an internship is an investment. Just like when you were preparing for college and asking what degree is right for me? make sure you seek out internships in a field you enjoy and that has the potential to propel your budding career to new heights. Creating your own internship Not all internships are advertised, and the ones that are tend to be highly competitive. Most every company needs someone to take care of a little extra work, and in this economy, not many can afford to hire that extra person particularly smaller companies. This is where you come in. Reach out to the right companies. In your emails, in your cover letter and in interviews, youre going to have to answer the question Why you? Its a tough question, and the answer always starts with Why them? Learn about the company, and know why you want to be there. If youre having trouble figuring out where you want to go with your career and how your studies might influence that, put together a list of questions to ask an academic advisor. Be their biggest fan. Flattery wont get you everywhere, but companies love believers. If you believe in the work theyre doing, everything will be easier, from applying to committing to a schedule. Not only that, but you can renew their enthusiasm for their work, which is huge. If they need someone to pick up a few jobs, that means the people there are probably overworked and on the way to burning out. You can help fix both. Be persistent. Dont look desperate; thats not attractive in any situation, career or otherwise. Look and be eager to get started and make that known to the right people. Again, these people are busy, which means you arent their highest priority and you might slip their minds. When you reach out to ask about an internship, make it easy for them to respond, be professional and try different avenues (i.e., if your email feel flat, go into the office and put a face to your name). If the company uses Facebook or Twitter or any other social media outlet, engage them there, and keep it positive. Dont be in contact much more than once a week, but dont stop until they give you a firm answer. Fill needs; dont step on toes. You want to be sure that youre offering to fill needs the company has, not offering to replace someone particularly not your contact. Ask if theres anything they need, and offer your skills tactfully. Dont ever start with criticisms. That wont get your resume anywhere but the trash bin. Youre an intern, not a slave Yes, its a tough market, but that doesnt mean you should be treated poorly at work, intern or no. Dont put up with humiliating or invasive hiring tactics, and dont do more than youre willing to. Be sure to always weigh the benefits of your internship against your duties, and put your foot down when things start to get bad. If youre being overworked, it could be time to bring up a full-time position at the company, and if they wont consider it, it could be time to take the experience youve gained and move on. Your internship is a great opportunity for both you and the company youre working for; treat it that way. Career Tip of the Day:7 Insights to Master the Job Interview We are always eager to hear from our readers. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or suggestions regarding CareerAlley content. Good luck in your search,Joey Google+