Missing Pieces

Missing Pieces: Embracing the Whole Self in a World of Perceived Inadequacies

One of the most common yet isolating experiences many people face is the feeling that something is missing from their professional or personal lives—whether it’s a gap in knowledge, experience, or even confidence, leaving us feeling as is we are a puzzle with missing pieces.  This sensation of lacking critical pieces of the puzzle can often feel like an invisible weight, especially when it comes to our careers. We look around at our colleagues, and it seems like they have everything figured out— the right skills, the right education, the right connections—and we fear that somehow, we’re falling short. That we are not living up to unspoken expectations and are instead offering a false image of who we really are.

For many, this fear manifests in the form of imposter syndrome, that persistent sense that we are unqualified or unworthy of the position we hold. It's as if we are pretending to be someone we’re not, living with the fear of being ‘found out’. Truthfully, this feeling is more common than most people think. Nearly everyone experiences a form of this at some point in their career, regardless of their level of experience or success.

As someone who lives with complex PTSD, I can deeply relate to this feeling of missing parts of myself. Trauma, whether experienced in childhood or adulthood, often leaves us with emotional scars that manifest as gaps in our self-image, our sense of belonging, and our ability to trust in our own worth. For many trauma survivors, those missing pieces are a daily struggle. Feeling incomplete, as though we’ve been broken or damaged in some way that makes us less capable or less deserving than those around us.

The truth, however, is that the sensation of missing pieces doesn’t just belong to trauma survivors. It’s a universal experience. Everyone at some point in their life deals with the perception that they are lacking something whether it is skills, knowledge, or even a sense of self-assurance and confidence. For some, these feelings are fleeting, but for others, they can persist for years, manifesting as self-doubt, anxiety, or a constant drive to overcompensate by pretending everything is fine.

The biggest challenge is how we respond to this fear of inadequacy. Often, we internalize it, turning it inward into self-blame, self-loathing, or the constant urge to hide our vulnerabilities. We push ourselves to act as if we have everything under control, hoping no one notices the cracks in our facade. But the truth is, we are all masters of disguise in one way or another. Whether it’s in our professional life, our personal relationships, or how we show up in the world, we all wear masks to hide the parts of ourselves that we perceive as unacceptable.

The Power of a Safe Space

So, what can we do with these feelings of missing pieces? How can we begin to heal and embrace the wholeness that we are, even if we feel fragmented?

The first step is to acknowledge that these feelings are normal and that everyone experiences them. There is no perfect person—no one has all the answers or all the skills, no one is immune to insecurity or self-doubt. Recognizing that you are not alone in this can be incredibly helpful.

Secondly, it’s important to create a safe space where you can explore these feelings. In both personal and professional environments, a space that encourages vulnerability, openness, and curiosity can help you begin to uncover what is truly missing. This might be a supportive team, a mentor, or even a therapist—a space where you can talk through your perceived inadequacies without fear of judgment. It’s in these spaces that many of our fears are found to be unfounded. Often, the things we feel are missing are simply areas where we need more knowledge or experience—areas that can be developed over time, and that are not intrinsic deficits of  our character or ability.

Embracing the Whole Self

As we continue to grow, it’s crucial to realize that we don’t need to have everything figured out right now. Life is a journey of discovery and learning, and it’s okay to have gaps, to not have all the pieces in place. In fact, those gaps may be a source of strength. It’s through the process of identifying what we’re missing and seeking out those pieces that we build a richer, more resilient version of ourselves.

It’s also important to understand that there is no "perfect" version of yourself that you need to live up to. The idealized versions of others that we compare ourselves to often exist only in our minds. Everyone is working through their own challenges, usually in silence, and the external confidence we see in others is often a mask, just as we wear our own.

The next time you find yourself feeling like something is missing, or that you are somehow incomplete, remind yourself that this feeling is shared by almost everyone. Instead of focusing on what you think you lack, try to embrace the full spectrum of your experiences—flaws, gaps, and all. In fact, it’s often those very things that make us uniquely capable of growth, connection, and understanding.

We don’t need to be perfect. We just need to be whole.

We each have the ability to redefine our ‘puzzle’ to be a complete picture.

This journey toward embracing our "missing pieces" is a lifelong process, but it’s one that leads to deeper self-acceptance, resilience, and authenticity. Whether you are navigating the complexities of trauma or simply trying to find your footing in a demanding world, know that the feeling of being incomplete is not a flaw—it’s part of the human experience. The beauty of life lies in the discovery of who we are, and the peace that comes when we finally realize we are enough, just as we are.

The Power of Trying: Finding Light Through the Darkest Times

Long ago, I found myself in the middle of a very dark chapter in my life. I was seated across from a mental health practitioner, feeling lost, frustrated, and overcome with despair. Every option felt impossible; every solution seemed out of reach. I looked at him, his pen poised above the prescription pad, and I cried out, “But what can I do?” His answer was simple, yet profound: “You can always try.”

It was a small statement that held a powerful truth, one that has guided me time and again in different circumstances. No matter how bleak things might feel, we always have the choice to try. It doesn’t mean knowing exactly what to do or being sure of the outcome. It simply means taking a step—even a tiny one—in some direction.

There’s a saying that it’s easier to steer a moving object than one that is stationary. This truth applies to our energy as well. Movement, no matter how small, creates momentum. And when we try—when we just take a single step forward—we shift from being stuck to being in motion. That motion opens doors we couldn’t see when standing still. The simple act of trying is a quiet, resilient whisper to the universe that we aren’t giving up.

When we commit to trying, we enter a world of infinite possibilities, often described as “infinite diversity in infinite combinations.” It’s not about having all the answers or taking leaps; it’s about being open to what might come next. Even the smallest effort is never wasted. We may not see immediate results, but those efforts have a way of building on each other. Sometimes they surprise us, showing up as opportunities we hadn’t dreamed of or as new people entering our lives when we least expected them.

In life and career, the act of trying often leads us to places we wouldn’t have found otherwise. New connections, fresh ideas, and unexpected solutions often appear only after we’ve taken that first step. Trying is its own reward, giving us not only hope but also opening us to experiences that enrich us in ways we couldn’t have planned.

So, when you find yourself in a moment of doubt, remember: you can always try. That small act of courage, of moving forward despite uncertainty, is what shapes the path to a brighter tomorrow. Keep moving. Keep trying. A new chapter may be closer than you think.

Harnessing the Power of Self-Assessment Tools: A Key to Intentional Career Planning

When it comes to career planning, one of the most empowering ways to set yourself up for success is to build a deep understanding of your unique strengths, areas for growth, and personal goals. One of the most effective approaches for achieving this is through the combined use of self-assessment tools and career coaching. These tools—ranging from aptitude and personality assessments to skills tests—are valuable resources that help bring your core traits and abilities into focus, providing a strong foundation upon which you can design a fulfilling career path.

The Role of Self-Assessment Tools in Career Planning

Many people first encounter self-assessment tools in high school, often through aptitude and skill tests that encourage students to think about their potential career paths. But these tools go far beyond that first exposure. Today, self-assessment options range from fun, informal quizzes on social media to comprehensive, research-backed assessments that dive deeply into one’s personality, skills, and preferences. Used thoughtfully, these tools can be transformative for career seekers at any stage, offering a unique opportunity to reflect on who you are, what you want, and where you’re going.

Uncovering Strengths and Building Self-Awareness

Self-assessment tools bring crucial self-awareness to the forefront by helping you see yourself objectively. They can reveal strengths you may not have realized you have or help to clarify those that have remained underdeveloped. This self-awareness is an invaluable asset in career planning, as it allows you to identify and maximize your most marketable skills and traits. Self-assessments can guide you toward roles and industries where your abilities will shine and where your unique contributions will be valued.

Self-assessment tools are not only about identifying strengths but also about recognizing areas for growth. Suppose you have a dream job in mind but lack certain technical skills. In that case, the results of an assessment can help outline a clear path for skill development, highlighting areas where upskilling or additional education could be beneficial. It’s a forward-thinking approach that empowers you to focus on skill-building efforts strategically, increasing your potential to thrive in your desired role.

These tools can also help you identify if you have the right aptitude for the career you are looking at and can save you the heartache by potentially wasting time chasing a path not meant for you. These tools can help you find ways to fulfill your desires with career options that will match not only your skills but your values as well.

How Career Coaches Enhance Self-Assessment Insights

While self-assessment tools are undoubtedly powerful on their own, combining them with the insights of a career coach can elevate your career planning process even further. A skilled career coach can help you interpret your results, guiding you on how to leverage strengths and address areas for improvement. In my coaching work, I integrate self-assessment tools to help clients clarify their personal performance habits, preferences, and overall career readiness. By analyzing these results together, we gain a clear understanding of what kinds of work environments, responsibilities, and roles align best with their aspirations and strengths.

A career coach can also help you broaden your perspective, uncovering career paths you may not have considered. Self-assessment results can highlight soft skills, latent talents, and hidden strengths that shine a light on new possibilities. Through coaching, you can explore how these qualities might translate into career options that align with your ideal lifestyle, work-life balance, and long-term goals.

Creating a Strategic and Aligned Career Path

When used in tandem, self-assessment tools and career coaching provide a structured, intentional approach to career planning. Together, they can help you see a clear path forward, identifying both immediate next steps and longer-term goals. They allow you to create a career path that fits seamlessly into your current lifestyle while also aligning with the future lifestyle you envision.

By utilizing self-assessment tools and engaging with a career coach, you equip yourself with the clarity, confidence, and actionable insights needed to make career choices with intention. This partnership empowers you to navigate career transitions, make skill development decisions, and explore new roles with a strategic mindset—ultimately leading to a career journey that is both fulfilling and aligned with your true self.

Final Thoughts

Self-assessment tools and career coaching offer a comprehensive, empowering approach to career planning that centers on personal growth and self-awareness. Whether you are just starting out, changing careers, or simply looking to fine-tune your current trajectory, leveraging these tools can be transformative. The journey to a fulfilling career is not just about knowing what you want to do but also about understanding who you are. When you combine self-assessment insights with personalized coaching, you set yourself up to build a career that resonates with both your professional goals and your personal aspirations.

#careercoaching, #teamwork, #professionaldevelopment, #personaldevelopment, #investinginyourself

The Power Of A Proactive Mindset in Shaping Your Career

Are you struggling with your career, searching for new job opportunities, or contemplating the leap into entrepreneurship? Many of us experience moments of doubt and uncertainty in our work lives, questioning whether we've chosen the right path or if we're truly finding fulfillment in our careers. One of the most effective tools to navigate these uncertainties—and even reduce their frequency—is adopting a proactive mindset in your career.

The Impact of a Proactive Mindset on Your Career

Whether you’re just starting out or well-established in your career, maintaining a proactive mindset is crucial for long-term success and fulfillment. Individuals who actively seek opportunities for growth, development, and advancement tend to thrive in their work, gaining a deeper sense of purpose and satisfaction.

Why a Proactive Mindset Matters

Proactive individuals don’t wait for opportunities to come knocking—they go out and create them. They actively pursue experiences, education, and development that enhance their knowledge and skill set. This approach not only broadens their network and boosts their confidence but also positions them to seize opportunities with readiness and confidence. Employers highly value proactive individuals because they exude confidence and demonstrate a commitment to their own growth.

Taking charge of your career trajectory is a key factor in defining your success, leading to greater satisfaction and a well-deserved sense of accomplishment. Additionally, being proactive can shield you from the unexpected and unpredictable fluctuations of today’s job market. While reactive individuals may only act after facing a negative impact or losing a job, proactive individuals often transition away from unstable environments before a crisis occurs.

Mavis’s Story: A Case Study in Proactive Career Management

Consider Mavis, who worked in the Finance Department of a mid-sized company with unionized employees. Although she enjoyed her work, she found it lacking in challenge and growth opportunities. Rather than remaining complacent, Mavis sought other ways to engage in her workplace. She joined employee committees focused on office morale, social events, team building, and safety. Through these activities, Mavis expanded her knowledge of the company’s operations, grew her network, and developed new skills.

When it became clear that the company’s conditions would not improve, Mavis leveraged her experiences to explore new career options outside the company. She eventually secured a role in HR within a different industry, avoiding the downturn that negatively affected her former colleagues. By proactively seeking growth and development, Mavis protected herself from a deteriorating work environment and embarked on a new, rewarding career path.

The Risks of a Reactive Mindset

In contrast, reactive job seekers often find themselves at the mercy of the job market, limited by current trends and unprepared for sudden shifts in the workplace. This lack of preparation can lead to missed opportunities for advancement and, in some cases, redundancy.

Start Now: Steps to Cultivate a Proactive Mindset

Regardless of where you are on your career path, adopting a proactive approach will benefit you. Being proactive can help you advance in your current role or organization, give you an edge over competitors when applying for new positions, and keep you connected to changes in the job market. Here are some steps to start cultivating a proactive mindset:

1. Expand Your Network: Reconnect with people in your network. Start a conversation, find common ground, and share your professional journey with them.

2. Say “Yes” to Opportunities: When opportunities for professional development, skills training, or team building arise, step up and say yes. Every new opportunity brings something of value.

3. Apply Proactive Thinking to Your Life: Extend your proactive mindset to your physical and mental well-being. Prioritize your health and well-being before issues arise.

4. Create Your Own Opportunities: If the opportunities you seek aren’t available, explore ways to create them. Consider side jobs, freelancing, contract work, or consulting as realistic and attainable options.

Taking the Driver’s Seat in Your Career

By adopting a proactive approach to your career and personal development, you put yourself in the driver’s seat, gaining more control over the direction of your professional life. A proactive mindset allows you to anticipate challenges and prepare for them, ensuring you’re equipped to handle any issues that arise. Start small by setting a proactive goal for yourself this week. If you’d like personalized guidance on your journey, I’m here to help you navigate your course and stay on track!

All images used in this post were created using AI.

First Impressions Count.

First Impressions Count: The Crucial Role They Play in Hiring

We’ve all heard the saying, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” This adage holds particularly true in the realm of job seeking. The initial impression you make on a hiring manager can significantly influence their perception of you as a potential candidate. But it's not just job seekers who need to be mindful of first impressions. Employers, too, face the critical task of attracting the right candidates, and the first impression they make can be a game-changer in drawing top talent.

The Job Seeker's Perspective: Making Your First Impression Count

For job seekers, the first interaction with a potential employer often sets the tone for the entire hiring process. This first impression encompasses everything from your resume and cover letter to your demeanor and appearance during the interview. Here are a few key tips to ensure you leave a lasting positive impression:

1. Craft a Stellar Resume and Cover Letter: Your application materials are the first glimpse an employer has of you. Make sure they are well-organized, free of errors, and tailored to the job you’re applying for.

2. Dress Appropriately: Your attire should be professional and appropriate for the company culture. When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.

3. Show Enthusiasm: Demonstrate genuine interest in the position and the company. Enthusiasm can be contagious and can set you apart from other candidates.

4. Be Punctual: Arriving on time shows that you are reliable and respectful of the interviewer’s time.

5. Prepare Thoughtful Questions: Asking insightful questions during the interview shows that you’ve done your homework and are truly interested in the role.

The Employer's Perspective: Attracting Top Talent

For employers, making a good first impression on potential hires is essential to attracting and retaining the best candidates. This process begins long before the interview stage and involves effectively communicating your company’s brand and culture. Here’s how employers can make a positive first impression:

1. Know Your Brand and Culture: Understand the core values and culture of your company. This clarity will help you attract candidates who are a good fit.

2. Craft Compelling Job Postings: Your job postings should accurately reflect your company’s values and the type of candidates you are seeking. Be clear about expectations and the qualities you value in your employees.

3. Set the Stage for Interviews: Create a professional and comfortable interview environment. This includes not only the physical setting but also the demeanor of the interviewers.

4. Reflect Professionalism Through Staging: Demonstrate your company’s values through tangible elements. For instance, if workplace safety is a priority, wear appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) during the interview and have safety-related props visible.

5. Communicate Expectations Clearly: During the interview process, set clear expectations about the role and the company culture. This helps candidates understand what is expected of them and what they can expect from the company.

Building a Strong Foundation

The first impression you make as an employer doesn’t end with the interview. Welcoming new employees and providing a supportive onboarding process helps lay the foundation for a productive and fulfilling employment relationship.

By setting a positive tone from the very beginning, both job seekers and employers can create a foundation of mutual respect and understanding. This not only helps in making the right hiring decisions but also contributes to long-term job satisfaction and retention.

In conclusion, first impressions in the hiring process are vital for both job seekers and employers. By focusing on making a positive impact from the outset, job seekers can increase their chances of securing their desired position, and employers can attract and retain top talent who are aligned with their company’s values and culture.

THE POWER OF SUCCESSION PLANNING: FUTURE-PROOFING YOUR WORKFORCE

The Power of Succession Planning: Future-Proofing Your Workforce

In today's fast-paced business world, organizations must be prepared for change at any moment. One of the most effective strategies to ensure continuous growth and stability is succession planning. This forward-thinking approach involves identifying and developing potential future leaders within your organization, creating a robust talent pipeline that can seamlessly fill key roles as they become available.

Why Succession Planning Matters

1. Developing a Talent Pool Succession planning is more than just a contingency plan; it's a proactive approach to talent management. By systematically identifying and nurturing high-potential employees, organizations can create a talent pool ready to step up when needed. This not only ensures continuity but also promotes a culture of growth and development within the company.

2. Preparing for Recruitment Drives Seasonal staffing fluctuations and sudden vacancies can disrupt business operations. Succession planning helps mitigate these challenges by preparing a pool of qualified candidates ready to take on new roles. This preparation can significantly reduce the time and resources spent on external recruitment, making the hiring process more efficient and cost-effective.

3. Covering Potential Shortages Industries often face periods of increased demand that require additional staffing. With a well-developed succession plan, organizations can quickly identify internal candidates to fill these gaps, ensuring that operations run smoothly even during peak times. This adaptability is crucial for maintaining high levels of productivity and customer satisfaction.

Succession Planning as an Effective Development Program

A key question many organizations face is whether succession planning can evolve into a comprehensive development program. The answer is a resounding yes. By integrating succession planning into your overall talent development strategy, you can create a structured pathway for employees to advance their careers. This not only helps in filling sudden vacancies but also fosters a sense of loyalty and engagement among your workforce.

Benefits of an Integrated Succession Plan:

• Employee Retention: Employees are more likely to stay with an organization that invests in their growth and development.

• Enhanced Morale: Knowing that there are opportunities for advancement can boost employee morale and motivation.

• Knowledge Transfer: Experienced employees can mentor and train their successors, ensuring that valuable knowledge and skills are retained within the organization.

Join Our Lunch & Learn Session

To dive deeper into the benefits and strategies of effective succession planning, join us for an insightful Lunch & Learn Zoom session on Friday, August 16th at 12 noon Pacific Standard Time. We'll explore real-world examples, best practices, and actionable tips to help you implement a successful succession plan in your organization.

Session Highlights:

• Building a robust talent pool

• Streamlining recruitment processes

• Adapting to seasonal staffing needs

• Developing comprehensive employee development programs

This session is ideal for HR professionals, managers, and anyone interested in strategic workforce planning. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your organization's resilience and continuity.

📩 Email info@lisahack.com to receive a link.

Future-proof your business with effective succession planning. Let's build a brighter, more resilient future together.

#SuccessionPlanning #TalentDevelopment #WorkforceStrategy #HR #ProfessionalDevelopment #LeadershipDevelopment #FutureProofYourBusiness

Celebrating the 'Aha' Moment.

Celebrate the ‘Aha’ Moment

One of the greatest moments I experience is when my clients have an "aha" moment. You know the moment—when they have an epiphany, when all the pieces come together, and they are able to see or realize something about themselves and their journey that had not been obvious to them before. These aha moments are wonderful to witness, as the client visibly becomes more confident, less confused or stressed, and more at peace. It is an incredibly powerful moment.

Defining Success: A Common ‘Aha’ Moment

One of the first “aha” moments my clients typically have comes when we talk about what success means for them as an individual. For most of us, we grow up chasing an idea or definition of success that is not our own. We often get our ideas of what success is from our parents, our communities, and what we see in the media and popular culture, as well as from our peers. Many of my clients have become exhausted and exasperated chasing an ideal of success that holds no truth or value to them as individuals.

The Realization: Success is Personal

Success is different things to different people. It comes to us at different times, for different reasons, and it looks different for everyone. Realizing that you have the power to define success on your own terms to fit your needs and wants can be a very empowering moment and a critical one when doing career planning. Success is also a fluid construct that bends and shapes itself to what you need it to be as you move through life, as our lives also bend and shape in reaction to the world within and around us.

The Impact of Aha Moments

Having the privilege to be present when a client experiences an “aha” moment is an incredible experience. These moments of self-empowerment and growth are milestones worth celebrating. When a client understands that they can define success for themselves, it changes everything. They start to see their path more clearly, make decisions with greater confidence, and pursue goals that genuinely matter to them.

Celebrating the Journey

Savor the sweetness of these aha moments. Celebrate them. They are signs of growth, empowerment, and progress. Remember to enjoy the journey and take pride in each step forward, no matter how small it may seem.

Takeaways

• Personal Definition of Success: Understand that success is personal and can be defined by you, not imposed by others.

• Empowerment Through Realization: Recognize that you have the power to shape your own success, leading to increased confidence and peace.

• Celebrate Growth: Acknowledge and celebrate the moments of clarity and self-empowerment as they are significant milestones on your journey.

In conclusion, the “aha” moments are powerful transformations that bring clarity and direction. They are worth celebrating and cherishing, for they mark the points where you truly begin to live life on your terms. Enjoy the journey and every aha moment along the way.

Enhancing Workplace Bullying and Harassment Training: Preparing for Workplace Bullying Awareness Week

Enhancing Workplace Bullying and Harassment Training: Preparing for Workplace Bullying Awareness Week

In today’s professional environment, maintaining a safe and supportive workplace is more important than ever. Over the past five years, I have been privileged to deliver Bullying and Harassment in the Workplace training to numerous organizations. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with a 97% approval rating from participants who would highly recommend the training.

As we approach Workplace Bullying Awareness Week this October, I am excited to share some significant enhancements to our training program. These updates are designed to provide even more practical and powerful strategies to combat bullying practices, while fostering an environment of awareness, prevention, and empowerment.

The Importance of Bullying and Harassment Training

Workplace bullying and harassment can have severe impacts on both individuals and organizations. Victims of bullying often experience stress, anxiety, and a decline in job satisfaction, which can lead to increased absenteeism and turnover. For organizations, this translates to reduced productivity, higher costs, and a damaged reputation.

Effective training programs are crucial in combating these issues. By educating employees and management about the signs of bullying, legal implications, and appropriate responses, we can create a healthier and more inclusive workplace culture.

Why Participants Recommend Our Training

Our Bullying and Harassment in the Workplace training has been highly praised for its engaging content, practical advice, and supportive atmosphere. Here are some reasons why participants have given it a 97% approval rating:

1. Interactive Learning: Our sessions are designed to be interactive, encouraging participants to share their experiences and insights. This collaborative approach helps to foster a deeper understanding of the issues and promotes a supportive community.

2. Practical Strategies: We focus on providing practical strategies that can be implemented immediately. Participants leave with actionable steps to identify, prevent, and respond to bullying and harassment.

3. Expert Insights: Our training is backed by extensive research and expert insights, ensuring that participants receive accurate and up-to-date information.

Enhancing the Training for The 2024 - 2025 Season

As we prepare for Workplace Bullying Awareness Week, I am working to enhance our training program further. Here’s what you can expect from the updated sessions:

1. Increased Emphasis on Prevention: While responding to incidents is crucial, preventing bullying and harassment from occurring in the first place is even more important. The new training will include comprehensive strategies for creating a positive workplace culture and proactive measures to prevent bullying.

2. Empowerment Through Education: Empowering employees to speak up and take action is a key component of our training. We will focus on building confidence and providing the tools needed to address bullying effectively.

3. Practical Exercises: The enhanced training will include more practical exercises and role-playing scenarios. These activities will help participants practice their responses in a safe environment and build their skills for real-life situations.

4. Supportive Resources: Participants will have access to a range of resources, including guides, checklists, and support networks. These resources will help reinforce the training and provide ongoing support.

Join Us in Creating a Safe Workplace

Workplace Bullying Awareness Week is a time to reflect on the importance of maintaining a respectful and supportive work environment. By enhancing our training program, we aim to provide even more valuable tools and insights to help organizations combat bullying and harassment effectively.

I invite you to join us in our mission to create safe and inclusive workplaces. Stay tuned for updates on our enhanced training sessions, and let’s work together to make a positive impact this October and beyond.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a training session, please feel free to contact me. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that our workplaces are places of respect, safety, and growth.