Today we see the beginnings of a ground-shaking new wave of developments, with artificial intelligence as the primary driver but also genomics, blockchain, 3D printing, nanotechnology, virtual reality, and more discoveries gaining recognition.

How can we manage our way through these upheavals to create the best possible opportunities and outcomes?

We can strengthen Quester traits. Questers are described in the award winning, Questers Dare to Change Your Job and Life, by Dr. Carole Kanchier:

Questers

Who are Questers? What personality traits give them confidence and courage to create and succeed in their desired life careers in uncertain times?
Questers have been around for centuries. Famous Questers include Socrates, Galileo Galilei, Marie Curie, Nelson Mandela, Elon Musk, and J.K. Rowling.

Yet, many Questers are folks who have courage and confidence to pursue their dreams. Samat came to North America from China when she was 28. Because she studied computer programming and learned English in China, it was relatively easy to find a programming job.

Questers create work that’s in harmony with their purpose. As a child, Fred loved fixing things so he studied mechanical engineering. He had been promoted to senior management within a large organization, but wasn’t happy. So, he pursued his purpose, “fixing things” by becoming a maintenance manager in a large apartment complex. “If you’re doing something you like, it’s not really work, and you’re making money…”  Fred radiates joy.

Questers measure success internally. Some may think Fred moved down the occupational prestige ladder, but Fred believes he moved up the ladder of success and satisfaction. Fred enjoys his work, is productive, and sets high standards.

Attuned to changes within and around them, Questers anticipate layoffs and know voluntary and involuntary career changes are a normal part of growth. Therefore, quitting a job during a recession may be smart. While his colleagues worried about being laid off, Mike upgraded his skills and contacted employers. He was offered a job the day he received his pink slip.

Not all Questers live to work. Some work to live.  Lorrie’s calling is to enjoy life. “I work to support my lifestyle…Although I get satisfaction from doing a good job, I devote my life to hobbies and volunteer activities.”

Retirement is obsolete to Questers. John, a professor, says; “I could retire, but choose not to because work is too much fun…”If I wasn’t paid, I would continue to work. If I retire, there is only one thing left!

We’re all born Questers. However, as we grow older, societal institutions impede development of Quester traits.  Fortunately, we retain Quester traits within and can strengthen these, if we desire.

Are You a Quester? Complete the Quester Quiz.

Nurturing the Quester Spirit

– Clarify purpose. Identify themes: absorbing childhood activities, proud accomplishments, when you’re most energized, a favorite Halloween costume.

– Be authentic. Do what’s right for you. Ensure actions are consistent with thoughts and feeling. Set goals in harmony with your purpose.

– Build confidence. Focus on the positive. Avoid, “I can’t.”  Don’t compare yourself with others. Judge accomplishments against personal standards and strive for excellence.

– Continue to learn. Read, take courses, volunteer. Challenge conventional beliefs. Recognize and seize opportunities. Find better ways to do things. Try! Place no limitations on yourself.

– Strengthen courage to risk. Review three successful risks taken. Note what made these successful. Identify perceived barriers for taking another risk and explore ways to overcome these.

–  Manage fear. Identify worrisome issues. Minimize these by researching relevant information and resources. Live in the present. Let go of “attachments.” Form a support system.

Create a life in which you can continue to learn, grow, and have choices. Life is an opportunity, take it, life is an adventure, dare it!

Questers Dare to Change Your Job and Life shows how to succeed: https://www.amazon.com/Questers-Dare-Change-Your-Life/dp/1508408963