Declines - I manage my declines as much as possible

Introduction 

There comes a time when everything you've been doing seems to be failing. This is a stressful time during which you might question your former decisions. Winter appears with a grey cloak and long beard. He tests our minds and spirits. His eyes are dark and stern and even the sun does not rise high in his presence. Winter brings long nights and short days. We shiver and shake. Yet winter teaches us resilience no matter the difficulties we may endure. Most dislike the harshness that is winter but it is possible to thrive in it. Go to your storehouse and benefit from what was achieved during the summer. Reflect on your position and plan ways to deal with the challenges at hand. Learning to handle disappointments is a lifelong lesson, and yes, sometimes life is not fair but how we adjust ourselves defines us as survivors with incredible mental toughness.

Benefits of managing declines

1. Getting through difficult times makes us stronger.

2. Gives us an opportunity to turn things around.

3. We have a reason to make changes when things are hard.

4. It helps others to learn how to get out of their own declines. 

Skill example 

I was a teachers assistant in the same school for so many years. I always did things in the same ways at the same times and was in a comfort zone. When others would give me advice I would get angry as I thought I was the specialist. One day I woke up and realised I was moving on in my years and was getting older. Instead of just carrying on in my comfort zone, I approached people and began to ask for advice on how I could be of more service. I then actioned that advice with surprising results as I found my energy and passion once again. 

Joseph’s story

Having lost both his parents when he was four years old, Joseph was raised in an orphanage. His childhood was characterised by loneliness. As he grew older, Joseph’s only goal was to have his very own family where he could provide for his wife and children. He studied hard at school and applied for a bursary when he matriculated. University was an equally lonely place, but Joseph knew he was getting closer to his goal. He obtained a part-time job in retail to save money for life after university. After many hurdles, battling with depression and falling behind on his studies, Joseph completed his postgraduate degree in Computer Science and was offered a job at a programming company in Johannesburg. He also met wonderful people at his new job and even found a wife. When looking back, Joseph gave thanks for all he had lived through and was very happy he did not give up.

Managing career declines

Managing declines in your career can be challenging, but here are some tips to help you navigate them:

Identify the cause: Try to identify the cause of the decline. Is it due to changes in the industry or economy, a lack of opportunities, or personal factors? Understanding the cause can help you develop a plan for addressing it.

Build new skills: Consider building new skills to increase your value in the marketplace. Take courses, attend workshops, or look for other opportunities to learn new skills that are in demand.

Network: Build and maintain relationships with people in your industry or field. Networking can help you stay up-to-date on new opportunities and may lead to new career opportunities.

Update your resume and LinkedIn profile: Keep your resume and LinkedIn profile up-to-date to showcase your skills and accomplishments. This can help you stand out to potential employers.

Consider a career change: If you're not finding opportunities in your current field, consider a career change. Look for fields that align with your interests and skills, and consider taking courses or volunteering to gain experience in the new field.

Seek support: Reach out to mentors, colleagues, or a career counselor for support and guidance. They may be able to offer advice or connect you with new opportunities.

Take care of yourself: Managing declines in your career can be stressful, so it's important to take care of yourself. Get enough sleep, eat healthy, and exercise regularly.

By following these tips, you can effectively manage declines in your career and find new opportunities for growth and success. Remember to stay positive, proactive, and focused on your goals.