Navigating Uncharted Territories

Part of having hope is being willing to lean into the unknown, knowing you’ll come out the other side. We know you can do it, too! While living in unprecedented circumstances may mean navigating uncharted territories, don’t lose hope. The pros we’ve turned to below will help inspire you to keep on going, even as your professional environment undergoes changes.

While these tips for cultivating hope in any professional environment are geared towards employers, Linda at Integrated Success’s suggestions are also applicable to employees: “Be a sounding board to help your [colleagues] work through their uncertainty and be open to new possibilities.” Make sure your co-workers know that you’re a safe person to approach and bounce new ideas off of. That way they’ll be inspired to return the favor whenever you have an innovative solution that can offer up a positive change for the whole team.

Looking beyond our present, unprecedented circumstances to the opportunities beyond, Tracy Brower at Forbes offers up thoughts on “How Optimism Can Help Your Career”: “Be Present. One of the hallmarks of pessimism is worrying about the future and negativism that can spiral out of control. One of the strategies for optimism is to stay more focused on the present. In fact, a brand new study from MIT found middle school students who practiced mindfulness experienced less stress. Be present in each meeting and each interaction with colleagues. Focus and give your best in every moment knowing that investment in the now will result in a positive future.” You can’t know or control what the future has to hold. Focus on what you can do in the here and now, on ways to cultivate hope in your life and the lives of your colleagues. Demonstrating that kind of leadership is a surefire way to navigate an uncharted territory.

For even more cuteness and mood-boosting, check out the Instagram account of Hannah Shaw, aka the Kitten Lady. Shaw’s page features ample pictures and video footage of the adorable kittens she fosters–and the occasional puppy! Let these little ones renew your sense of hope, lifting your spirits to help you navigate through terrain you’ve never encountered before. And check back tomorrow to close out the week with our Feel Good Friday: Hope edition.

This posting is brought to you by Contemporaries Inc., one of the best temp agencies in Boston MA. Also available for payrolling employees in Boston and Greater Boston