The Most Unexpected Career Advice


Okay story time…

If you’ve been around my coaching practice for some time, you know that I think the world of my husband.

We've journeyed through a lot together and I remember one particularly stressful career pivot…

I was deciding if I should leave my steady management consulting role to join an early-stage startup as a Co-Founder.

I found myself stuck after building multiple financial models, talking to advisors and flip flopping about whether to say “Yes” or “No”.

Want to know what sealed the deal for me?

One simple statement from my husband.

He looked at me and said, “You’ve got to do this. You light up when you talk about the startup and team. We’ll figure everything else out. Just go for it.”

So I did.

And I’m so glad I did.

(you probably wouldn’t be reading this if I hadn’t)

So, if you’re in the midst of a career transition, have you considered the powerful role your partner plays in shaping your career journey?

Your partner is often your biggest supporter (and influencer), and involving them in your career decisions can bring clarity and alignment.

In fact, couples who openly discuss their goals are more likely to achieve them, with studies showing a 42% higher likelihood of success when goals are shared.

That’s why I recommend taking time to talk with your partner about what comes next - not just for your job, but for the life you want to create together.

My favorite way to do this is to plan a "Dream Date".

Here's what it looks like...

Set aside time for a “Dream Date” where you and your partner focus on answering one big question: What kind of life do we want to create?

This isn’t just about your next role; it’s about envisioning a future that excites both of you. It can be a date night out, a cozy evening in, or even a walk in the park—whatever setting helps you both feel comfortable and open.

Dream Date Template: 3 Key Questions

Use these three questions as a guide during your Dream Date to have a meaningful discussion:

1. What are our top 3 priorities in the next 5 years?
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Think about everything from career growth to lifestyle changes, family goals, financial stability, and personal passions. This helps you align on what matters most, so that your career choices support your shared vision.

2. What does success look like for us, both personally and professionally?
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For some, this might mean a high-powered job in a big city. For others, it could mean flexibility to spend more time with family or pursue hobbies. Discuss what each of you sees as the ideal balance between work and life.

3. How can we support each other through this transition?
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Identify practical ways to help each other. Maybe your partner can offer feedback on your LinkedIn profile, or perhaps they need more time together to de-stress after long job search days. This question ensures that you’re both on the same page about what support looks like.

Why This Matters

By taking the time to align on your shared vision, you can approach your job search with a clearer understanding of what opportunities will support your life together. It makes the process less about “finding any job” and more about “finding the right fit.” And when your partner understands your vision, they can be a true advocate for your goals, helping you navigate challenges along the way.

Make the Most of Your Career Transition - Together

Career transitions feel uncertain, but they’re also an opportunity to redefine your path in a way that supports the life you want to build.

Spend time with your partner to ensure that your next steps are aligned with both your personal and professional goals. It’s time to turn this career change into a chance for growth, together.

I'm curious! Have you tried a Dream Date before? How did it go? What would you add?

If this is new for you and you give it a try, I'd love to hear from you, just hit reply to this email.

Until Next Week,

Beckie

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