What if small, visible tweaks in your external world could unlock profound internal transformation? Join me as we explore this intriguing concept, flipping the focus from inner mindset shifts to actionable outer changes. In this episode, I share the compelling story of a client who found herself stuck at an executive plateau. Discover how simple adjustments to her appearance and workspace ignited newfound confidence and motivation, proving that external changes can serve as powerful catalysts for internal growth. 

You’ll also hear about another client who experienced a significant boost in self-perception and confidence after hiring a stylist for a wardrobe makeover. By aligning her external appearance with her aspirations, she began to embody the person she aimed to become, impacting how others perceived and interacted with her. Whether it's updating your wardrobe or organizing your workspace, these small, tangible changes can serve as undeniable proof of your ability to grow and succeed. Tune in to learn how these actionable adjustments can reinforce your belief in your potential and set you on a path to achieving your goals.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

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Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Regret can be a powerful force in our lives, especially when it comes to career decisions. Imagine accepting a job during the pandemic, only to find out it doesn't meet your expectations. That’s the story of Michaela, a client who faced unforeseen dissatisfaction despite being recruited for a promising high-growth field job. Through Michaela's journey, we explore how unchecked regret can erode self-belief and create a destructive mental cycle. You’ll learn how to manage regret productively to prevent it from overshadowing your sense of self-worth and future decision-making.

We go beyond just identifying the problem; this episode offers actionable solutions. Discover a structured five-step process for managing regret, which includes accepting reality, understanding the specific factors influencing your decisions, and learning valuable lessons for future choices. This journey isn't just about Michaela; it's about you too. By addressing how over-dramatizing mistakes and comparing ourselves to others can lead to self-blame, you’ll find ways to process regret in a healthier manner and look forward to a more positive future.

Embrace the wisdom that comes from life's ups and downs by shifting from self-blame to curiosity. Michaela’s story highlights the importance of focusing your job search on opportunities that align with your true values and preferences. This episode emphasizes breaking free from negative thought loops and learning to ask, "Now what?" to move forward. By the end of this episode, you'll see how every decision, even the ones that seem like mistakes, can provide crucial lessons and opportunities for growth. Join me, Carla Hudson, and harness regret for a more purposeful career and life.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Is your career or personal life stuck on autopilot? 

Learn how to get unstuck by breaking free from the chains of "learned helplessness", a concept of Positive Psychology. In this episode, we'll discover how Dr. Seligman's groundbreaking research can be the key to getting unstuck and transforming your life. 

I share my own career journey and some examples from my clients, showing you the power of taking proactive control and how refusing to remain passive in unsatisfactory situations can lead to a fulfilling and successful path.

We also explore the detrimental effects of learned helplessness on leadership and teams. By questioning established norms and power structures, I reveal how leaders can foster a culture of empowerment and drive positive change within their organizations. Sharing personal stories and real-world case studies, we address the three components of learned helplessness—permanence, pervasiveness, and personalization—and demonstrate how to overcome these barriers to improve team performance and morale.

Finally, we tackle the transformative power of changing perspectives, especially in midlife. Many believe their identities are fixed, but I show you how to challenge these ingrained narratives and make more fulfilling choices. Through practical examples and inspiring stories, learn how to align your current actions with a vision of your desired future self. Whether you're looking to improve your career, relationships, or personal health, this episode offers valuable insights into fostering an optimistic outlook and initiating meaningful transformations at any stage of life. Tune in and start optimizing your life and potential today!

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Can ambition evolve as we age, or does it remain a relentless pursuit of success? Join me in an eye-opening episode where we dissect the changing nature of ambition at mid-career. Drawing from my own experiences as a brand strategist, entrepreneur, and life coach, I share the journey of a client who, despite being at the peak of his career, faces the challenge of aligning his passions with his professional life. We navigate the complex emotions that arise when we come face-to-face with the finite nature of time, and I offer strategies for steering through mid-career malaise to harmonize professional and personal aspirations.

Discontentment at work can be bewildering—what if it's not your job, but something deeper? Listen in as we break down six essential steps to tackle feelings of dissatisfaction and a lack of purpose in your career. We'll dive into the importance of introspection to identify the root cause of your discontent and discuss why it's crucial to understand whether your dissatisfaction stems from the job itself, the organization, or your personal perspective. By focusing on the most significant factors impacting your work life, you can make informed decisions about potential career changes without hastily writing off your entire career.

Ever thought of transforming a corporate career into a fulfilling entrepreneurial journey? I recount my transition from a traditional career path to teaching through my business and share insightful strategies for reigniting your motivation. Discover the power of continuous learning, the significance of finding meaning in daily tasks, and the rejuvenating potential of changing careers. Whether you’re exploring a new industry or starting a side hustle, you'll gain practical advice on maintaining cognitive sharpness and fulfillment by rebalancing your professional and personal life. Tune in to enrich your mid-career journey with actionable insights and personal growth strategies.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Embarking on a journey through 14 cities taught me that true transformation isn't about your zip code; it's about what's happening on the inside. This week, I pull back the curtain on my own reinvention adventure, guiding you through the art of internal change. We're not just talking about swapping out your daily grind for a new one – it's about overhauling how you see yourself, and, more importantly, how you respond to that persistent inner voice nudging you towards something different. With six actionable steps, we'll navigate the terrain of personal growth together, aiming to craft lives that resonate with who we truly are.

Let's face it, a decade can slip by in an instant—so where do you see yourself? This episode is your invitation to dream without limits, as we assess every slice of the life pie, from career trajectory to the joy in your daily routine. Rate your current satisfaction and imagine your ideal scenario, free from the chains of self-doubt. I'll share how reshaping your identity is the linchpin in this grand design for fulfillment. Self-reinvention is a bold move, but with a clear-eyed view of who you want to become, we can start chipping away at the barriers between you and your ideal future self.

Tiny steps can lead to monumental shifts, and that's the spirited heart behind micro actions. Think of untangling a knotted necklace – it's all about patience, focus, and the gentle unraveling of one small tangle at a time. As we wrap up, I'm thrilled to extend an exclusive invitation to my Next Level virtual coaching program. It's a space where we'll apply these insights to your unique journey, ensuring the path you're on is one you've chosen deliberately. Ready to redefine success on your own terms? Let's take those micro actions hand in hand, propelling you towards the life and career you've always imagined.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Have you ever considered midlife to be a battleground of transition, laden with the promise of growth? Join me on a candid journey as we traverse the terrain of midlife – that span between 39 and the mid-50s where the intensity of peak career pressures, family dynamics, and self-discovery coalesce. Through my lens, you'll uncover the bittersweet symphony of life's halftime show, where the joyous fruits of labor intertwine with the profound challenges of supporting both the generation before us and the one that follows.

Resilience isn't just a buzzword; it's the life raft that keeps us afloat amidst the stormy seas of change. I'm here to guide you through cognitive strategies that fortify the mind and spirit, inspired by my holistic career coaching approach which transcends beyond the resume and into the heart of lifelong fulfillment. Together, we'll master the resilience skillset—including self-awareness and self-regulation—to navigate the unpredictable waves of midlife with unwavering focus and intentionality, bolstering your ability to lead with empathy and agility.

And for those ready to take the plunge into deeper waters, I'll introduce you to my virtual coaching program, Next Level. Imagine transforming the philosophical to the practical, where the pearls of wisdom gathered from our discussions become the actionable steps you take on the path to your career zenith. Embark with me at thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel, where your midlife renaissance awaits, just beyond the horizon of what you once thought possible.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Ever feel like you're trudging through your career, searching for that elusive spark? Join me as we tackle the mid-career quest for meaning, and discover how even the most mundane tasks can be transformed into fulfilling endeavors. Together, we'll unearth the strategies that can reignite passion in your professional life, ensuring a satisfying balance with your personal world. The key might just be a shift in perspective, and I'm here to guide you through it.

This episode is a treasure trove for leaders and team players alike, delving into the art of problem-solving and the joy of everyday leadership. We'll chat about the satisfaction that comes from strategic thinking and managing the finer details that keep our teams thriving. More importantly, I'll share how to weave personal significance into the fabric of our day-to-day work lives, blending career aspirations with family, hobbies, or passion projects to create a tapestry of fulfillment.

As we reflect on the impact of regret and the shadow it casts over our contentment, I offer ways to steer clear of the 'what-ifs' and focus on the paths we've chosen. We'll tackle how to set boundaries and combat imposter syndrome, essential tools for navigating the demanding mid-career stage. Join me on this journey as we explore how to remain inspired and intentional, and turn your mid-career into a beacon of purpose and joy.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Ever found yourself stuck in a rut, whether through a twist of fate or a series of questionable decisions? I'm Carla Hudson, and in my latest podcast episode, I draw from the deep wells of personal experience to guide you out of life's darkest holes. Prepare to climb out with me, as we navigate the treacherous terrains of financial mishaps, career nosedives, and health setbacks, embarking on a journey of self-recovery that's as meticulous as a climber's ascent to the summit.

This episode is a heartfelt conversation about the real struggles we all face, paired with the transformative steps necessary to emerge victorious. I delve into the importance of acknowledging where we stand, halting any harmful behaviors, and strategically planning our way out. Just like a mountaineer, we'll focus on preparation, agility, and determination. I open up about my own challenges, from the housing market crisis to professional dilemmas, to illuminate how visualizing your summit of success can be a beacon through the clouds of adversity.

Ending on an empowering note, I extend an invitation to join my virtual coaching program, Next Level. It's more than just overcoming current obstacles; it's about gearing up for the journey ahead. By transforming the lessons discussed into actionable stepping stones, we can ensure that your path leads to both a purposeful career and a fulfilling life. So, let's take these insights and make every week phenomenal together.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Have you ever caught yourself trapped in a cycle of "shoulds," feeling chained to expectations that don't truly resonate with who you are or what you want? In this episode, we explore the importance of breaking free from this mindset and discover the keys to realigning our actions with our authentic goals. 

Through a candid conversation about personal experiences and the transformative story of a client who battled career setbacks, we unpack how this 'should' mentality often intensifies in midlife but can grip us at any age. We'll walk through practical steps to dismantle early programming that leaves us chasing shadows instead of embracing our own aspirations.

In our eye-opening discussion on self-reflection and personal growth, we dissect the illusion that staying put in a career equals adaptability and the hidden dangers of comfort zones. I'll guide you through the process of filtering out the deafening noise of societal expectations and tuning into your inner voice. Discover how to appreciate what's truly valuable in your professional journey and learn techniques like "thought downloads" to help identify genuine desires. Shed the weight of the 'shoulds' and step into a space where fulfillment and motivation meet, crafting a purposeful path that's uniquely yours. This episode isn't just about change; it's about transformation.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.

Ever feel like you're standing at a crossroads in your career, unsure of which path to take next? You're not alone. Join me as we traverse the landscape of mid-career reinvention, where the real transformation isn't about a new job title, but about a seismic shift in self-perception. Throughout this episode, I share my own journey and the invaluable lessons learned from changing cities and jobs, revealing that the most profound consistency comes from within. We'll unravel the process of recognizing the need for change and how to tune in to that subtle inner voice nudging us toward a new horizon.

Embarking on the road to reinvention, we discuss the necessity of self-evaluation across six pivotal life domains. I guide you through a reflective process that begins with painting a vivid picture of your future self, free from the constraints of your inner critic. Together, we explore the essential groundwork for any noteworthy transformation—aligning your self-image with the future you desire. This identity work is far more than just navel-gazing; it's the cornerstone of your next chapter, one where you emerge as the protagonist in a life you've consciously authored.

As we close, I underscore the mindset shift required to make these dreams a reality. Change, especially in midlife, isn't just about wishful thinking—it requires belief, persistence, and the willingness to engage in micro actions. These incremental steps might seem small, but their compound effect can steer your life in an entirely new direction. So, if you're ready to untangle the complex knot of your current trajectory and chart a course toward a career and life you've always envisioned, this episode holds the map. Let's set the compass of our lives together, step by manageable step.

Do you have a question you'd like to have addressed on the podcast? Want to give us some feedback or suggestions? Click here to send us a text.

Follow us on Instagram @thepurposefulcareer.
Learn more about Next Level, our monthly membership at https://www.thepurposefulcareer.com/nextlevel.