Today's work environment is tough. Psychologically, the uncertainty has taken a toll on all of us. In many cases, we are not as successful as we were a few years ago. And, even though we know it is not our fault, we are blaming ourselves.

After all, who else can we blame? If we are sending out resumes and not getting replies, it has to be something we have done wrong. Maybe we did not use the right words. Maybe our cover letter was not that effective. Maybe nobody wants us. If we are at work and a project we wanted funded was turned down, it has to be our fault. Maybe we did not have the right conversations with the right people. Maybe we did not propose the idea very well.

Here is the truth; it is not your fault. You are working harder than you ever have in very difficult times. Applaud your effort. And, please know that you are not alone.

But don't stand still! Take the actions you have been afraid to take. Follow your gut and trust your instincts. They will show you the way.

So, what do you say? You only have one life to live, so it might as well be a life you love!

II. SEVEN STEPS TO BEAT FEELINGS OF FAILURE

1. Recognize That You Did Not Fail

Even though we read in the paper that the economy is not doing well, we are still looking inward for the reasons that we are not succeeding. This is a useless exercise. You are not the cause of our country's economic situation. Your present situation is a character building period in your life, and it will get better. Happier times will be here sooner than you think.

2. Decide What's Important To You

Maybe there is more to life than money and material possessions. Could being fulfilled in your work be more valuable? It really does not matter what career you have as long as you are happy. Are you doing what you love? If not, what is stopping you? It is important to discover what you want, so you can create a future that ignites your passion.

3. Recognize That What Lies Around The Corner Is Inspiration

What have you learned from this experience? I bet you have learned to rely on yourself more. You probably have learned to trust that you can handle whatever comes your way. Remember that out of darkness comes light. The light is what brings vision and purpose into your life.

4. Decide What You Will Do Next

Your career is not something that you fix when you have to. Rather, it is a work in progress. Have you wanted to switch careers? Now is the time to begin the research phase. Have you wanted to improve your skills? Now is the time to take that class you have been talking about. Decide NOW what your next move is. Once you know what you want, implementation is less difficult.

5. Get In Action

What is your first step? Your second, your third? One step each day gives you thirty steps completed at the end of the month. Goals are not reached overnight. They are achieved with consistent movement over time. Get yourself into action. This will be the catalyst that will move you in the right direction.

6. Stop Struggling Through Your Career By Yourself

Are you moving at a consistent pace? If not, enlist the help of a friend, spouse, coach, colleague, etc. Someone who will listen and support you through this uncertain period in your life. Standing still or moving backwards can be frustrating, and disheartening. Remember that you do a disservice to your career and yourself when you work through your career concerns alone.

7. Reward Yourself

Yes, the final reward may be more money, a promotion, or a new career, but do not forget to reward yourself along the way for your hard work and effort. A year from now, you will not be the same person you were before your career was shaken up a bit. And, you'll smile to yourself because you will know that this is a good thing.

LOVE WHAT YOU DO EVERYDAY!

Do you want a career you love? If you answered YES, then working with a coach may be your next move!

If you answered YES to any of the above, then working with a coach may be your next move. Many people who have worked with me can now say "I love what I do!"

Act Now! Take the first step and visit http://www.surpassyourdreams.com to find out how to get started.

IV. COACHES CORNER

Since many of my newsletter subscribers are coaches, this section is for you. It contains tips and techniques to take your coaching practice to the next level.

PRESS ON