In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Misha Rubin about facilitating meaningful intentional changes at work and in life. Below is a summary of the main points from their conversation! Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!
Watch the episode here:
Quick Recap
Jonathan and Misha discussed the challenges and benefits of making intentional changes in one's life and career, emphasizing the importance of personal transformation and understanding one's preconceived notions about the world. They introduced the "career leap method," a systematic approach to help people align their career choices with their values and desired impact, and highlighted the importance of discovering and exploring possibilities despite personal constraints. The conversation also touched on the importance of personal courage and the lessons that can be learned from one's family experiences.
Intentional Change and Personal Transformation
Jonathan and Misha discussed the challenges of making intentional changes at work and in life. Misha, a career educator and CEO of Career Leap, shared his background, including his time as a partner at Ernst and Young and his work with children at risk globally. The conversation focused on the difficulty of change and the importance of making intentional choices to break the cycle of a meaningless grind. Misha emphasized the need for personal transformation and the potential for growth and success.
Navigating Change and Career Transitions
Misha and Jonathan discussed the challenges and benefits of change in one's life. They agreed that change can be uncomfortable but ultimately easier than staying in a situation that isn't fulfilling. Misha emphasized the importance of understanding one's preconceived notions about the world and being empowered to make changes. Jonathan agreed, noting that change requires energy, passion, and resilience, but can lead to exciting new things. They also touched on the topic of career change, with Misha sharing his own experience of being in a successful but unsatisfying career.
Career Choices and the Career Leap Method
Misha discussed the three main drivers of career choices: other people's opinions, circumstances, and inertia. He noted that many professionals and executives are disempowered or unsatisfied with their careers due to these factors. Misha then introduced the "career leap method," a systematic approach he developed to help people answer the question of what's next for them and align their career choices with their values and desired impact. Jonathan agreed with Misha's points, emphasizing the influence of social norms, family, and ego on career decisions. He also highlighted the importance of understanding one's own desires and potential for fulfillment in career choices.
Exploring Career Values and Future Self
Jonathan and Misha discussed a three-part process for helping clients discover their core values and envision their future selves. The process involves considering one's future self in 10 years, evaluating a career blueprint consisting of inner, aspirational, and integrational criteria, and creating a career leap map to explore potential career paths. Misha emphasized the importance of understanding one's career value system to make informed decisions about opportunities. Jonathan agreed with Misha's approach and highlighted the importance of having a broader perspective of possibilities. Misha also shared his background as a management consultant and his focus on developing tools that align with higher aspirations.
Exploring Possibilities and Overcoming Constraints
Jonathan and Misha discussed the importance of discovering and exploring possibilities, despite personal constraints. Jonathan emphasized that there's no dishonor in doing what it takes to provide for one's family, and that people often put artificial limits on themselves due to perceived constraints. Misha agreed, suggesting that people should not start with a constrained mindset, as this can lead to being stuck. They both agreed that living the best life possible is the best way to provide for one's children, rather than using constraints as an excuse. Jonathan provided a personal example to illustrate this point.
Discussing Entrepreneurship and Personal Courage
Jonathan and Misha discussed Jonathan's childhood experiences, particularly the lessons he learned from his father's decision to leave a secure job to start his own business. Jonathan acknowledged the financial struggles that followed, but appreciated the entrepreneurial spirit and courage his father demonstrated. Misha emphasized the importance of personal courage and how it can be a valuable lesson for children.
Listen to the webinar here:
