Which opportunity is right for you?

Just like you, I've been watching social media working it's magic for bloggers all over. When you put yourself out there, amazing opportunities can seemingly pop out of nowhere and find you. Yes, you. Anything can happen to anyone if you're putting yourself on the map in some way.

So when I landed a book deal opportunity, I was floored. Being noticed by a book publisher was an incredible honour! I couldn't wait to get started and worked VERY hard at earning their approval. (part of the process is proving you have what it takes) 

When it fell through due to a corporate shuffle, I felt deflated. Would my chance ever come again?

I tried not to get discouraged but it was hard. I wanted to write! And then you guessed it... another book offer came. But it wasn't the right offer at the right time.

Pouting, I wondered if anything cool would EVER knock again. 

Good news! More offers have since come. Some very cool, and some very hard to say no to. How does one even know what's right? Good question! I don't always know myself. 

I am writing this entry for a reason. Some decisions that need to fit into my current lifestyle are being considered. I've had to really ask myself some tough questions to ensure I wasn't getting in too deep in the wrong direction. 

So here's what I suggest should an opportunity knock your way.

Ask yourself:

That 'thing' that you want... think long term. If you were a raving success, do you want the next step that comes with it? 

How will your climb effect your family around you at this current time?

Do you have a good support system to help you along your way?

and the biggest of all...

Is this really what YOU want?

Let it sink in.

New offers go through a 3 step process for me. Adrenaline high, denial/disbelief, then productivity or turn down.

Allow yourself to be excited but keep it under wraps (at least 24 hours) until the adrenaline slips away, then really decide if it's right for you. I've blurted out things too soon, only to feel a little silly later.

Be ok with no. 

I feel really unsettled saying no to something that 'sounds' fabulous from the start. But know what happens for each no I give? I appear to receive another yes that may be a better fit. Saying no is a hard one to master, because you may fear not having another chance. But I suppose it's called faith for a reason. 

Trust your gut.

Panic, gut twisting or loss of sleep are pretty obvious signs that it may not be right for you. Listen! Modify the opportunity so it WILL work or turn it down. 

You may already have what it takes.

I've regrettably turned down some things only to realize later I was capable of pulling off my own successes without them. I think sometimes those knocks come just to prove they AREN'T right for you and you've had the right stuff all along. Imagine.

Keep doing what YOU love. Keep your own goals in mind and let them be heard.  Be patient and give yourself time to grow. Then choose the opportunities that allow your style to shine while living the lifestyle you wish to maintain. 

Then make it happen.

Now THAT is how to be successful, wouldn't you agree?

Are you struggling with any career moves of your own?