EP4: The Internal Work of a Regenerative Career Transition (Interview with Ryan James, Pt 1)
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Have you ever felt like you're living someone else's definition of success? Like you've climbed the corporate ladder only to find yourself perched atop a structure that doesn't align with your true purpose? If so, you're not alone. Many professionals reach a point in their careers where they begin to question the path they've taken and yearn for work that feels more meaningful and connected to the world around them.
But here's the thing: making that transition isn't just about updating your resume or acquiring new skills. It's about embarking on an internal journey of self-discovery and reconnection. It's about understanding who you truly are and where you stand in relation to the world around you.
Ryan James, a regenerative systems facilitator and organizational culture designer.
The Foundation of Purpose
Contrary to popular belief, finding your purpose isn't the final step in your career journey—it's the foundation. As Ryan explains, the indigenous Siksika people viewed self-actualization as the base of their metaphorical teepee, not the pinnacle. This perspective turns our conventional understanding on its head.
In our modern world, we often push purpose to the back burner, thinking we'll get to it once we've achieved financial security or reached a certain level of success. But what if we've got it all backwards?
Redefining Success
The first step in this journey is to question our definition of success. As Ryan points out, "Tests don't measure a child. Tests measure the structure of the system that relies on the test." Similarly, the markers of success we've been chasing might not actually align with our personal values or aspirations.
Ask yourself:
What does success truly mean to you?
Are you living by your own definition or someone else's?
What would it look like to build a career with purpose as the foundation?
The Internal Journey
When we feel disconnected from our work, our first instinct is often to look outward—to search for new jobs or opportunities. But the real work begins within. It's about tuning into that inner voice that's calling for change.
This internal journey involves:
1. Listening to Your Heart
Ryan suggests that the desire for change often emanates from our hearts, not our minds. It's about aligning our external reality with our internal truth. This might feel uncomfortable at first, especially if you're used to making decisions based purely on logic or external expectations.
2. Reconnecting with Nature
Understanding our place in the natural world can be a powerful catalyst for change. Ryan reminds us that the Earth is not just a backdrop for human drama, but a living, evolving being. By reconnecting with nature, we can tap into a deeper sense of purpose and belonging.
3. Embracing a Beginner's Mind
If the idea of starting over feels daunting, try reframing it as an opportunity for growth. As Ryan points out, "The sun starts fresh every day." There's beauty and potential in approaching your career with fresh eyes and an open mind.
The Ripple Effect of Our Choices
It's easy to think of our career decisions as purely personal matters. But Ryan introduces a broader perspective, reminding us that our choices have far-reaching consequences. In yoga, karma means action, and in our interconnected world, the actions we take in our careers can impact not just our own lives, but future generations as well.
Taking the First Step
So, where do you go from here? Start by asking yourself, "What did you do once you knew?" This powerful question acknowledges that deep down, you already know what changes you need to make. The challenge—and the opportunity—lies in acting on that knowledge.
Remember, this journey isn't about abandoning everything you've built. It's about realigning your skills, experiences, and passions with work that truly matters to you and contributes positively to the world.
As you contemplate your next move, consider:
How can your unique skills be used to assist life?
What work would light you up and give you energy?
How can you align your career with the continuation and flourishing of life?
