Today I am sharing something special. Recently, one of my executive coaching clients achieved his goal and found his desired job in a new industry. It was a challenging journey, as the job market and employers often box you into your past roles. However, my client started his new job this month, and we celebrated his success. I was deeply touched when he said, "I wanted to close this chapter with something special," and presented me with a poem.

I knew he wrote poems as a hobby, but I was still surprised and honoured. With his permission, I am sharing it with you today. He wishes to remain anonymous. I am truly thankful for his trust and wish him much success in his new role.

“Against the Odds

In the finance world, I stood tall,

An expert in the field, I knew it all.

But tired of the corporate grind,

I wanted change, a new path to find.

 

With courage, I gave my notice clear,

Stepping into the unknown, with a queasy feeling.

The job market was tough, the world unkind,

They boxed me in, to my past confined.

 

The unemployment office was a hassle to face,

Endless forms and rules, a tiring chase.

But I pressed on, with a vision bright,

My transferable skills, a guiding light.

 

Rejected, redirected, doors closed tight,

But I persisted through the darkest night.

Believing in myself, creative and strong,

Crafting new strategies, I moved along.

 

One door closed, but another would show,

My optimism and faith began to glow.

Until one day, my efforts bore fruit,

A firm that met my needs recognized my pursuit.

 

My advice to all who face such a fight,

Is to keep trying, hold your dreams tight.

Trust in your journey, through fears untold,

For where there's a will, there’s a way bold.

 

Climb that mountain, step by step,

With courage in your heart, in every breath.

Let not fear, nor doubters stop you,

Forge ahead, carve your own way through.

 

Success is born from persistent grace,

Belief in oneself, at every pace.

In a world that’s harsh, let your spirit sing,

With courage and faith, you can do anything.

 

The world may laugh at those who dare,

To act different, to be different, and care.

But it's all about the courage to stay,

To keep moving forward, day by day.

 

When one door closes, don't lose hope,

Find another path, a way to cope.

Stay open-minded, be creative and bold,

And your own story of success will unfold.

 

Through fear and uncertainty, I found my way,

Believing in myself, come what may.

Now, I stand in a place of pride,

Grateful for the journey, and the ride.

 

So here’s to the ones who dare to dream,

Who face the world, and swim upstream.

With courage and faith, you can go far,

No matter how tough the challenges are.

 

Keep climbing that mountain, one step at a time,

And know in your heart, you will shine.

Trust in your journey, and you’ll find your place,

In the world, with courage and grace.”

By A.S.

 

I hope this poem can serve as an inspiration for those of you in the middle of a career change process or others intending to do so. Keep using those courage muscles on the journey.

 

#courage #careerprogress #outplacement #careercoaching #executivecoaching