Name your “career red flags”

Why this practice?
Knowing what doesn’t fit builds wiser choices (Gallup, 2021).

What is it?
A list of work situations to avoid.

How to use it

Reflect on draining roles, tasks, or cultures.

Write: “I thrive when…” and “I struggle when…”

Closing thought
Boundaries protect your potential.

Collect career mantras

Why this practice?
Positive affirmations shift mindset (Wood et al., 2009).

What is it?
A toolkit of short empowering phrases.

How to use it

Examples: “I learn as I go.” “I am allowed to grow.”

Use as phone backgrounds or post-its.

Closing thought
Mantras are portable courage.

Create a “career courage contract”

Why this practice?
Written commitments build accountability (Gollwitzer, 1999).

What is it?
A pledge to act boldly in career choices.

How to use it

Write: “In the next 30 days, I will…”

Sign it. Share it.

Closing thought
Bold action starts with clear commitment.

Keep a “decision journal”

Why this practice?
Reflection improves future choices (Kahneman, 2011).

What is it?
A place to log key work decisions and their outcomes.

How to use it

Write: decision, context, fears, result.

Review quarterly.

Closing thought
Wisdom compounds when you track it.

Design your “professional playlist”

Why this practice?
Music anchors memory and motivation (Levitin, 2006).

What is it?
A curated playlist for career transitions.

How to use it

Include songs that remind you of past wins.

Use as a ritual before interviews or big days.

Closing thought
Your soundtrack tells your story.

Name your career “superpowers”

Why this practice?
Clarity on your strengths boosts confidence and agency (CliftonStrengths, 2021).

What is it?
A list of your top work-related talents.

How to use it

Ask 5 colleagues what they come to you for.

Reflect on tasks that energise you.

Closing thought
Superpowers guide your next step.

Design a “career courage” challenge

Why this practice?
Facing discomfort fuels growth (Zone of Proximal Development).

What is it?
A week of small actions that stretch your identity.

How to use it

Pick 5: speak up, reach out, pitch an idea.

Reflect daily on what shifted.

Closing thought
Stretch days shape strong futures.

Use “career weather” to describe your mood

Why this practice?
Metaphors help name emotions clearly (Lakoff & Johnson, 1980).

What is it?
Use weather words to reflect on your current work mood.

How to use it

Ask: “Is today stormy, sunny, foggy?”

Adjust pace or support accordingly.

Closing thought
Forecast your feelings to navigate them better.

Create a “career regret inventory”

Why this practice?
Naming regret helps dissolve its power (Emmons & McCullough, 2003).

What is it?
A non-judgmental review of past work-related regrets.

How to use it

Write 3 things you wish you’d done differently.

Note what you learnt and can apply now.

Closing thought
Regret is information—not a life sentence.

Craft a “values radar” for career choices

Why this practice?
Values anchor authentic career moves (Sinek, 2009).

What is it?
A simple filter to check if a decision aligns with your values.

How to use it

Write your top 5 values.

Score each new choice from 1–10 on each.

Closing thought
Aligned choices lead to energised paths.