Exploring Your Creative Genius: Episode 109

 

David Mattson returned for a second show last week to build on the first, focused on advice for those of us who have recently lost our jobs, by introducing us to Jack Mezirow’ work.

Mezirow’s Transformative Learning Theory is a 10-stage process helping folks shift their perspectives, often triggered by a “disorienting dilemma.” Losing a job unexpectedly is a classic example of such a dilemma, and Mezirow’s framework provides a road map for navigating this transition.

Mezirow’s 10 Stages of Transformative Learning Applied to Job Loss:

  1. Disorienting Dilemma: Losing your job is a seismic event that disrupts your sense of stability and identity. It forces you to question assumptions about your career, skills, and future.
  2. Self-Examination: Reflect on your emotions and beliefs. What does this loss mean for your self-worth? Are there skills or passions you’ve neglected?
  3. Critical Assessment of Assumptions: Challenge long-held beliefs. For example, you might realize that your identity isn’t solely tied to your job title or employer.
  4. Recognition of Shared Experiences: Connect with others who’ve faced similar challenges, realizing you’re not alone. This shared understanding can provide comfort and perspective and, perhaps, opportunities.

Note: I find this one to be of great value.

  1. Exploration of New Roles: Consider new possibilities. What other careers or roles could you pursue? What industries or skills are in demand?
  2. Planning a Course of Action: Create a plan. This might include updating your resume, networking, or enrolling in training programs to acquire new skills. Keep planning.
  3. Acquisition of Knowledge and Skills: Take concrete steps to prepare for your next chapter, whether through education, certifications, or hands-on experience.
  4. Try a New Roles: Experiment with new roles, perhaps through freelance work, volunteering, or part-time jobs, to test the waters.
  5. Building Competence and Confidence: As you gain experience, your confidence grows. You begin to see yourself in a new light, capable of thriving in a different context.
  6. Reintegration into Life: Finally, you integrate your new identity and skills into your life. You’ve transformed adversity into opportunity, emerging stronger and more resilient.

Summary:

Losing a job is both a challenge and an opportunity. Use Mezirow’s stages to reframe your experience as a catalyst for transformation, finding new purpose and direction.

“Exploring Your Creative Genius” takes an expansive view on what it means to be creative and entrepreneurial in an ongoing conversation led by Carl Nordgren — entrepreneur, novelist, and lifelong student with decades of experience growing his own creative capacity and assisting others to do the same in exciting new ways!

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