Many people change careers because they are seeking lifestyle alternatives. We're NOT referring to the lifestyles of a hippie group, a religious cult or other fringe communities. We're referring to lifestyle choices as a result of building successful and fulfilling careers. These lifestyle alternatives are the dreams of every person but are enjoyed by only some. In which group do you want to be?
Lifestyle Alternatives are About Having More ChoicesYou may be seeking lifestyle alternatives which have nothing to do with earning more money. You decide to change career the parallel career way because you're seeking a different lifestyle that will give you
more Time, more Freedom and more Control such as….
Spending
more time with the people and 'things' you love - your love ones, your hobby or your life's passion.
When to wake up and
when to work - you plan your own working hours.
Who to work with - choose not to work with those you do not want to.
Where to work from - a home office...your kitchen table...or a shared office.
What to
wear - you can be in your pyjamas or wear a tuxedo.
Freedom to make
decisions - no need to seek permission from anyone.
Freedom to implement
ideas - no need to 'sell' your idea to a committee.
Full
control over your livelihood - no need to report to your boss.
These lifestyle alternatives give you the choice to choose...
while others go to work every Monday because they have to (afterall it's called a working day)...
....you're still in your pyjamas having breakfast with your spouse and watching your favourite sport on ESPN. Later, you decide to play a round of golf instead of doing paperwork since you worked until late the previous night. And...you don't have to inform the boss!
While others are busy writing a report to management on what they achieved during a recent business trip...
....you attend a luncheon to raise money for homeless teenagers.
While others have to apply for leave to go for a holiday...
.... you go when it suits you.
While you still have a job, do not fall into the trap of complacency and a false sense of security. Instead, start thinking about a parallel career. Start with the end in mind. Ask yourself what lifestyle would give you real satisfaction?
Your Choice of Lifestyle Depends on Your ValuesIt is said that the best lifestyle is to have a
career you love and have
someone to love.
To love is to value. What are your
values that are most important to you? Are they for the moment or a lifetime? Here are some to ponder...
Good health and physical fitness
Recognition from others for your achievements, status and position
Touching the lives of others
Your religious beliefs
Financial security
Nature
Independence
Your spouse or partner
Spend time with your children and be there whenever they need you
Your association, society or alumni
Knowledge and continuing education
Stability and order
Tidiness and an organised environment
Owning a home
Your Values Determine Your Plans and ActionsWhen you know what you really want...begin to build a parallel career while you still have a job with the
end goal of quitting your job and 'doing your own thing'.
Don't just change career. Choose one of the lifestyle alternatives that give you
real satisfaction. Dream about...then work towards it the parallel career way. The parallel career way just makes this transition less stressful.
About the Author
Infopreneur, Writer, Engineer and Consultant. Former company high-flyer - shares tips, ideas and information on how to start a parallel career at: http://www.parallelcareer.com