Career paths can be as complicated as we are as individuals — and equally as misunderstood. In many cases, how we truly feel about our career path, is in direct conflict with what we outwardly express to others. We might profess that we hold our so-called “dream job” — yet we feel bored or unsettled. Or we may realize that exploring a “stretch assignment” would be in our best interest — yet somehow this never becomes a priority. Over time, our level of engagement wanes, as it becomes difficult to deny that something is simply missing. We want to develop — but seem precariously stuck within the status quo. So, it may be time to finally ask yourself this question: Have I acknowledged all of the strengths that could positively impact career fulfillment?

Sometimes we begin to realize that the “spark” has begun to fade from our work lives. We feel drained. We feel unmotivated.This could be be directly related to our failure to authentically connect with who we are, and what we really wish to become as contributors. Most of us have strengths (or hidden talents) that we have set aside or have never explored work-wise. Shifting focus — or “pivoting” toward these elements within our current roles — may provide meaning and a sense of renewed energy.

Interestingly, career paths do not have to be drastically altered or disrupted, to bring meaningful change. This can be accomplished through small, yet meaningful adjustments. This begins with a moment of pause, to actively move toward our neglected strengths. Growth requires us to acknowledge our core and move toward it. This involves stepping back and completing a “work life inventory” of what we might need from our work.

Just as time management isn’t always about time (it is about the tasks we choose to invest in) — work life happiness and success can have as much do to with what we are not bringing to the table, as with what we are currently applying. Let me provide an illustration: Recently, I spoke with Richie Etwaru, Group Vice President of Clouding & Digital Innovation at Cegedim, about his mid-career “pivot” toward a valuable (and personally rewarding) skill set which he discovered along his career path:

“Around age 30, Senior C-levels realized I was very good at constructing visual illustrations of complex concepts and wanted my help. Helping to draw illustrations and empowering others articulate, while staying “behind the scenes”, was for me actually the role of an apprentice (to my CFO and CEO). But, I realized career growth meant I was never too old or experienced to be someone’s apprentice in a specific skill area.”

On a personal note, I began to realize that bringing some element of writing into my work life was critical. (I have enjoyed writing since high school.) Upon reflection, I noted that I have always been the first to volunteer for any project that required writing, such as engagement surveys or situational assessments. As a result, I acted — and began blogging about careers, work life, and organizations at WordPress (this eventually led me to LinkedIn.) This has brought a new facet into my work life, that I believe I needed.

I assure you, that you can make these small, yet meaningful adjustments as well.

How to explore a pivot:

Take a moment of pause. Take the time to honestly assess where you are. Do feel fulfilled, or would you describe each day as “just more of the same”? Do you envision expanding your horizons? Dwell on those “points of strength” (skills, talent or interests) that would bring value and meaning to your work life.

•Map your potential. This process is a bit like picking up bread crumbs in the forest. Search for your own work life “clues”. What type of projects or tasks are you drawn to? (Look back and reflect upon when you felt the most engaged, energized and effective. Is there a pattern?) For example, were all the moments related to writing or presenting? Developing ideas? Synthesizing information? Leading a team? Separate skills that you were required to develop vs. those that are essential to your core.

•Align work with strengths. Seek options to pivot toward your potential. Meet with a supervisor or trusted mentor to begin to make this a reality. This doesn’t require a drastic change your path. Consider joining a new team in an area that interests you, or volunteering for projects that emphasizes an “untapped” strength. (I chose to enhance my career life when I found a bit of down-time.) Simply allow the room to enhance your work life experiences. Companies often re-calibrate their direction to reach their full potential — and you can explore this, as well.

•Commit to greater happiness. Do you need the energy or courage to start the process? Make a declaration to take measured risks to flourish. You can keep one foot “planted” in your current role, yet explore a new facet — so begin the process, with a small step in the right direction. You may not know exactly where you will land, but the journey may be worth the effort.

Stuck? Try this exercise and list your top 3-5 areas. Complete the following sentence: “In the best of all worlds, I would spend more time doing _______________ at work.”

What would you like to bring into your work life? Share that with us.

Dr. Marla Gottschalk is an Industrial/Organizational Psychologist. She also writes The Office Blend.