One day, we can be bowling along as happy as Larry with our lot (side note : does anyone know who Larry actually was and why he was so happy? Please let me know in the comments).

Then, sometimes not more than 24 hours later, we can be questioning our very existence and wondering what we are made for?

It’s happened to me regularly and initially I thought it was a bad thing.

To be fair, sometimes it is and that’s just part of life.

But, other times, it’s a sign and it’s one that I used to very often miss, but as I’ve grown older, I’m much more practised at recognising it for what it is.

It’s often a signal that it’s time to change things up, to transition to something new…

Now that sounds scary, doesn’t it?

As humans, we’re wired to view change with trepidation.

Our rational brain likes to know what’s going on, to keep us safe, and change means unknown and therefore unsafe.

So brain logic says it’s not safe to go there.

So we don’t…

For me, I then find myself starting to resent what I’m doing, or procrastinating because I’m bored.

Many years ago, I attained a role that I had spent years qualifying and gaining experience for and I loved my job.

But things changed and we had a family , I was always working and the time sacrificed was no longer worth the ache of not seeing my boys.

I think I wasn’t really happy any more, but I didn’t recognise my creeping resentment as a signal to change.

I had everything I had always dreamed of; a corporate directorship, company car, excellent benefits, great company.

How could I possibly want out?  I was doing ‘what I was made for’ surely?

But I wasn’t…my life and work no longer aligned.

Slowly I realised that it was time to change, but it scared the absolute pants off me, who would I be if I wasn’t being the ‘now’ (at that time) me?

Looking back, to be honest, I floundered for a while…

But then I realised that in my job, I set strategic direction, I managed change, I took the brave steps…

So I stepped back from my own situation and looked at what I would do if this was a work project?

• Establish where we are now, where do we want to go and how are we going to get there?
• Research – what does where we want to go look like – reduces uncertainty and makes it look less scary.
• Run the ‘What if” test – look at potential outcomes, good and bad, and check that I am happy to cope with what they could be?
• Communicate – talk to other people involved and get their thoughts.
• Make a plan.

I did all this and then I put it into action, I reduced the risk as much as I could and accepted that it was going to be messy and difficult and went for it.

Transition often comes with baggage and obligations to step out bravely.

But that’s not a reason not to do it.

I’m not saying it was all roses in the garden, but business never is and success is a long term game.

Many years later, I have sold two businesses, currently run a portfolio of other businesses and mentor a handful of others.

But most importantly of all, I’ve been lucky enough to see my boys grow up and been there when they’ve needed me (most times (I didn’t say my method was perfect ;-)).

I live a life I love, I do what I was made for…

And when I feel that niggle start, (and it will, because as our life experiences roll across our horizon, our needs and wants do change), I question what I was made for, I listen, I question ‘what was I made for? I plan and then I change things up.

My mantra : Always move towards doing more things that delight you, it’s in your power to make that happen.

It might not be instant, but set the intent and you’re halfway there.

Tell me below, are you doing what you’re made for, or is change needed?