Tuesday Truths – November 28, 2023
I’m always asked, “How did I get into coaching?” This is MY Story:
When COVID-19 hit, and all the dental offices were closed, I was left with a life-changing decision. Should I go back to my dental hygiene career or retire? For it was an easy decision.
I have been in dentistry for 48 years, at that point, my whole adult life! And that was already my third career!
I was already working part-time and could financially retire; however, I wanted to work. I loved my career as a preventive health professional!
The time of our COVID shutdown brought me great clarity, “the state of having a full, detailed, and orderly mental grasp of something” http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clarity, on the next decade of my life.
I have always been terrific about what I call “reinventing myself.” Burnout is very high in this profession.
I received certifications in Soft Tissue Laser Dentistry, took hands-on periodontal training, and got certified in local anesthetic and delivery of nitrous oxide in the very first class in NYS. I returned to school for a bachelor’s degree in health care administration/health science, excelled in leadership roles within the professional organization, and served on many advisory boards during my tenure.
So, big question was……. Who Am I…… if not a dental hygienist that I have been for 50 years???
I had to step back, look at where I was in the present, let the past go, and prepare to pivot into the next decade of my life!
I’m not sure how I found coaching; maybe it found me!
I have been doing coaching and consulting in practice as a preventive health professional. For me, this seemed to be a natural transition.
Without much research, I was drawn to one specific online program, Health Coach Institute http://health-coachinstitute.com.
The “light bulb did go off” decided to apply. However, the process of stepping away from Dentistry was a different story.
It took me a long time to “let go” of my identity over the last 50 years to where my purpose and passion would lead me today.
I became a client of my work and learned how to pivot from there to now by taking small steps to reinvent myself again!
It starts with a positive mindset and goal setting.
Then, the Five Steps of Transformation from Health Coach Institute (HCI):
1. Stepping Back
2. Letting Go
3. Saying Yes to Self
4. Taking Empowered Action
5. Setting Up Accountability
These are the steps a transformational coach would take you through for transformation for the BIG 5 Visions of life.
- Health and Wellness
- Career
- Money
- Love and Relationships
- That Which is Greater
According to Wake Forest University…….
How to Pivot Like a Pro: 5 Steps for Making a Successful Career Change:
- Reflect on your strengths and interests – What are you good at? What value did you have in the past? Here is a GREAT place to start.
- Research potential new careers – Look for industries or job roles that align with your interests and skills. Check out LinkedIn. Indeed, Glass Door. Networking online and in person can be invaluable.
- Consider your non-negotiables – Switching careers can be life-changing. Beyond skills and interests, think about financial considerations, new training, or additional education. YOU MAY NEED TO INVEST IN YOURSELF.
- Networking and making connections – In many ways, it is “who you know, not what you know.” Get out and attend “in-person networking” events. Gather information and insight into what is out there.
- Take the LEAP – After doing the work, keep your end goal in mind and stay positive as you navigate the transition. A career pivot may be an exciting opportunity to pursue your passions and find a more fulfilling career path. https://sps.wfu.edu/articles/5-steps-for-making-a-successful-career-change/.
In addition, you can also use these aspects for a personal pivot: Starting with a ……
- Positive Mindset – being innovative and having the desire to try new things.
- Step back – Sometimes, pivots are necessary and not in your control.
- Consider your core values – What excites you and supports a healthy lifestyle? Stay true to yourself and what you define as a great life!
- Self-Care – Your health is the foundation for your mental and physical well-being. Sleep, healthy food, and movement will give your mind and body the energy they need to heal.
- Celebrate who you are – It’s about #Progressionnotperfection. Change how you feel about yourself by replacing harmful behaviors with healthy behaviors. https://www.theguesthouseocala.com/why-do-people-pivot-their-lives/.
So, Trust Your Truths; there are NO certainties in life.
Pivoting is an essential part of life to maintain a healthy mind, body, and spirit. Keep an open mind and heart, and live with “AGE-GILITY!”
Please subscribe to my YouTube channel and check out my website at michelerase.com and my live radio blog from last week (if you missed it); here it is!
And this week’s Part 2 is on Wednesday at 2 pm EST!
There is more to come!
Bye for now!
.