Graduation Wisdom for the New Work World
Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, represents courage, civilization, law, strength, the arts, and skill. Athena had a significant role in Greek mythology and in the lives of the Athenians and all Greeks. She was also known for being a powerful defender in war but also a powerful peacemaker. We often see her depicted with her sword and shield to illustrate perhaps the metaphorical battles we all as humans will face in our lifetime. And for the graduates of 2021, whether they be graduates of high school or college, all will seek the wisdom to know how to navigate these uncertain and challenging times.
Reflecting on a commencement address I gave at a local college to graduates in 2019, I realized how different things are now for 2021 graduates. The etymology of the word “graduate” which comes from the Latin word “gradus” struck me. The word “gradus” traces back to the word “step” and I thought how different the steps going forward might be in 2021 than they were in 2019. And then Athena’s sword popped into my head. What if we considered Athena’s sword as being made up of 5 mini swords or steps a new graduate could use in these challenging times? Would these steps be somewhat of a roadmap or strategic partner to help them on their journey? Perhaps this infused sword could even be considered as a strategic weapon that might make the journey a bit less bumpy? A way to slay this battle of finding a job or right course of study to restore internal or external peace along the way? And then I thought of the Faremouth Method™.
The Faremouth Method™ is a tried and true method I have used in my recruiting practice for over 30 years. It is a series of steps that is very methodical in its approach but has allowed me to help thousands of candidates land successful jobs or educational pursuits in the past and even just recently, during these very different times. There is no “one size fits all approach” of course, and these steps below are a brief overview of the method. The steps can always be tailored to yield a successful application to your employment quest.
Also, included in the steps below, I did a bit of research from commencement addresses in the past from famous people who have imparted their wisdom to graduates. I tried to select their tips under the appropriate steps to illustrate their application.
Let’s take a look at the Faremouth Method™ below:
Step 1 — Do a Self-Inventory
Where are you on your journey at this time? What is your first choice, second choice of a job now? Where are your passions, interests, dreams?
Ralph Waldo Emerson (writer, philosopher) said, “What lies behind us, and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us.”
And Steve Jobs of Apple once said, “You’ve got to find what you love.”
Step 2 — Ask Better Questions
What jobs or career paths are in demand right now that would utilize your skillset? Does your resume reflect it accurately to align with the algorithms of the digital world of today to be selected for an interview? What can you imagine yourself to be doing in your next job?
Jon Steward, (writer, media critic) said, “The unfortunate, yet truly exciting thing about your life is that there is no core curriculum. The entire place is an elective.”
Albert Einstein noted, “Your imagination is your preview of life’s coming attractions.”
Step 3 — Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
What else could you do to fulfill your passions in your career? If your first choice isn’t open to you at this time, what could you do to prepare for something totally new?
J.K. Rowling (author) said, “We do not need magic to change the world, we carry the power we need inside ourselves already: we have the power to imagine better.”
Michael Keaton (actor) said, “Don’t be afraid to take risks.”
Step 4 — Take Your time and Do It Right
Have a solid plan and execute your plan. Visit with a Career Consultant, College Advisor, Mentor, Relative, or Friend. Don’t rush the process. Network, Network, Network.
Joe Girard (author) said, “The elevator to success is out of order. You will have to take the stairs … one step at a time.”
Sheryl Sandberg (COO Facebook/founder of Leanin) stated, “People are more important than technology.”
Step 5 — Be a Hunter
After you execute your plan, GO AFTER IT. You need to make a concerted effort to make things happen. Don’t let anyone stop you from your dream.
Writer Theodore Suess Geisel (Dr. Suess) said, “Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who do matter don’t mind.”
Babe Ruth, famous baseball player, said, “Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.”
Remember Athena, the Goddess of Wisdom, and her sword to defend herself in the battles of life to execute her dreams. This powerful sword infused with the 5 steps of the Faremouth Method™ can assist you on your journey to actualize your vision and purpose in 2021. Congratulations on your accomplishments thus far! Make your journey one of amazing new discoveries about who you are and what you can accomplish!
As actress Audrey Hepburn says, “Nothing is impossible, the word itself says “I’M Possible.’”
And author C.S. Lewis admonished, “There are far better things ahead than we leave behind.”
Faremouth & Company® is committed to assist you on your journey! Check out our upcoming Webinars and Workshop Intensives. With the right steps as your strategic weapon on your journey to success, you can make all your personal and professional dreams come true!
Mary Ann Faremouth has been a regular contributor to the USA Daily Post since April of 2020.
