Bloom Where You Are

As we embrace spring, “bloom where you are” is a great adage to contemplate. We may not be in the perfect job or the perfect company or have the perfect boss. Actually, we probably never will. Change is so rapid and certain in workplaces, that we can be chasing an end point that may never materialize. A year ago I wrote about starting my current job and how much I fumbled in the first few weeks. To turn things around I didn’t try to change anything externally, I reached in. I literally said to myself, it is time to bloom right here, right now, right where I am. This mental switch was very powerful. It allowed me to feel more grounded so I could access my strengths.

Here are a few tips to help you bloom where you are:

I am unique: Remember that you have unique skills, strengths and style. Have confidence in this and learn to draw on your unique qualities at work. 

Check in with your attitude: Having the intention to do a good job and to contribute to the organization, even amongst challenges, will help you stay more focused and positive. 

Look around: Consider what skills or knowledge you can acquire from your current job or situation. Find ways to get the skills or knowledge, including speaking to people in your organization who you can learn from, attending courses, asking to work on a particular project, etc.

Seek the positive: If that is difficult, at least do not contribute to the negative. We can have a huge impact on others in our workplace, both good and bad. Choose how you will impact others.

Build relationships: Do you have relationships at work that foster trust and respect? If not, what can you do to improve this? Your network stays with you for years and is important throughout your career.

Bloom where you are – try it today!