What is a sustainable career?
We might jump to environmental and social impact.
This could be part of the equation.
However, a sustainable career isn’t just about external contributions.
A sustainable career is one that we can maintain and thrive in over the long term.
One where we don’t compromising our health, happiness, or personal goals.
We balance our professional aspirations with our personal needs.
Ensuring our career trajectory supports our overall life satisfaction.
Why Pursue a Sustainable Career?
The most obvious reason is our long-term health.
Avoiding burnout.
Maintaining physical & mental health
Focused on all 8-dimensions of our wellbeing.
In addition, when we have a sustainable career, we feel more engaged at work, are able to manage & enjoy life outside of work and are in a state of continuous growth.
Elements of a Sustainable Career
How do we know if we are moving toward a sustainable career?
Here are 6 dimensions to consider:
- Work-Life Integration: Ensuring that our job allows us enough time and energy to pursue personal interests, spend time with loved ones, and maintain our health.
- Job Satisfaction: Finding joy and fulfillment in our daily tasks, feeling that our work is meaningful, and the role aligns with our values – this is where a sustainable job fits in.
- Growth Opportunities: Having access to continuous learning and professional development to keep our skills relevant and our mind engaged.
- Financial Stability: Earning a salary that meets our needs and establishes our financial future.
- Health and Wellbeing: Working in an environment that promotes mental and physical health, with reasonable work hours, support for stress management, and a healthy workplace culture.
- Flexibility and Autonomy: Having the ability to make decisions about how and when we work, which can reduce stress and increase job satisfaction.
How To Build a Sustainable Career
A sustainable career isn’t figured out once and good forever.
Our definition of a sustainable career changes by the season, year, and decade.
Choices that are right at one point of our lives might be completely wrong at another.
Here are 7 steps to a sustainable career at any point on our journey:
- Self-Reflection: Regularly assessing our career goals, values, and satisfaction levels. Understanding what we need and want from our career is the first step toward sustainability.
- Set Boundaries: Learning to say no and set clear boundaries to protect our personal time and wellbeing. This includes managing workload and avoiding excessive overtime.
- Financial Planning: Understanding our finances and managing them wisely ensures both short- and long-term stability and reduces stress related to economic uncertainty.
- Prioritize Health: Incorporating healthy habits into our daily routines, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and stress management techniques.
- Find Company Match: Choosing workplaces that prioritize employee well-being, offer flexible working arrangements, and provide opportunities for growth and development.
- Lifelong Learning: Engaging in continuous education and professional development to keep our skills sharp and open new career opportunities.
- Network: Building a strong professional network and seeking coaches and mentors who can provide guidance, support, and opportunities for growth.
Summary
A sustainable career is one that we can sustain at the current phase of our life.
One that doesn’t compromise our well-being, happiness, or personal values.
With frequent care and feeding, we can grow the career that best fits our life at any given time.
Your Turn
Do you feel your current career is sustainable?
If not, what elements feel out of balance?
Which of the 7 ingredients do you check in on frequently and which don’t get enough attention?