Building an Independent Identity Separate from Your Job
By Dickson Tumuramye
When this transition occurs, your
job-related identity dissipates. You may no longer hold that title except as a
former boss/staff. This loss may entail a decline in your social network,
including friends who were tied to you through your job title. Yet, amidst this
transitional phase, lies an opportunity for personal growth and resilience—a
chance to build an independent identity separate from the confines of our job
titles.
The primary impact of the job
loss or retirement is felt by your family - your spouse and children. Hence,
it's essential to ponder, "What comes next after leaving formal
employment?" Begin planning for your future endeavors that will sustain
both you and your family. Identify activities you can proficiently engage in
outside formal employment.
Consider where your acquaintances
will seek you out and where you can continue offering your services. If
consultancy or any company is viable for you, establish it now and promote it
among your contacts. Utilize your existing network to publicize your
forthcoming identity, which will prove invaluable in the future.
Don't postpone planning until the
last minute or until you're already out of work. Contacts in your network tied
to your current job might easily lose touch, yet these could be the very
individuals crucial to your independent ventures, consultancy, company, or
organization. This is a move that proves invaluable in garnering support and
clientele down the line.
Treat everyone you encounter with
respect. Individuals seemingly insignificant now might become your foremost
allies later. Share your vision and mission, and make known your side projects
or personal services outside your corporate role.
Cultivate your personal brand now
for easy recognition later. Leverage your current position to gradually market
it. The only challenge might arise if you're building a brand too similar to
your current one, which could lead to conflicts with your employer. However, if
it's slightly different and doesn't conflict with your current job, feel free
to share it. It poses no harm.
Nevertheless, remember to honor
your commitment to your current employer, as outlined in your contract. Whether
governmental or private, you have obligations specified in your appointment
letter. Neglecting your job duties due to your independent pursuits could
exacerbate your problems.
Involve your family in shaping
your identity. They will carry on your legacy when you're unable to manage it,
or even collaborate with you presently or provide counsel. After all, your
endeavors are for their benefit, making them primary stakeholders.
Though they may not fully
comprehend your activities now, deliberate mentorship will foster their
understanding, benefiting you in the long run. Don't face any challenges alone
when you have a family. As the saying goes, "home is where the heart is."
These are the individuals who will embrace you first during any life changes.
Therefore, include them in every step. Enhance their skills and understanding
of your pursuits now, so they'll know their roles and responsibilities in due
time.
Don't wait until it's convenient
to involve them, only to remember when it's too late. Such panic may subject
you to unnecessary pressure. Your family should always be your top priority
when planning for sustainability in life and self-reliance. You invest in their
education to add value to your life, so why exclude them when planning your
future, you will still include them in your will?
*The writer is the Executive
Director of Hope Regeneration Africa, a parenting coach, marriage counselor,
and the founder of the Men of Purpose mentorship program.*
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Dickson Tumuramye is also a passionate speaker on:
#Positive parenting
#Marriage and family
#Child counseling
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