My Trusty Venn Diagram

Sometimes the perfect role comes along, occasionally when you’re not even looking. That happened to me, eight years ago. I was offered a job working in a global organisation which had a great mission I cared about.

It was a fantastic opportunity. It ticked a lot of boxes. After fifteen years working by myself it was a new adventure with a move abroad. I knew the team, and I liked the people. The role would give me stability, responsibility and challenge. 

I was about to say yes… But. 

I have this Venn diagram pinned on my board above my desk. I always turn to it when I take on a new project or client:

• Does this project give me the chance to play where I play best?

• Is it aligned with who I am and what makes me tick?

• What does my gut say?
  

It was a tough decision. But the Venn diagram was my counsel. It was a simple reality check - would I have really thrived and done the best job I could? Or would I regret placing myself in a box? I realised I couldn’t have fully rocked up as the real me. I’d have had to play a version of myself. I’d have to be present in the office five days a week.

I turned the job down. 

Sometimes it’s something simple we need to guide us: straightforward, unbiased advice that cuts through the noise. My trusty Venn diagram never fails.