Try These 5 Things Before Updating Your Resume (For Real Career Clarity)

Ready to Move On? Don’t Start with Job Boards.

Most people, when they’re thinking about moving on, start by browsing job boards to “see what’s out there.” It feels productive, but often it just leads to more of the same:

✅ Same title, different organization.
✅ Same skills, different industry.
✅ Or maybe a stretch role that feels exciting… until it doesn’t.

From there, the cycle begins:

📄 Update resume and cover letter.
📬 Hit submit on a bunch of applications.
🐥 Wait… crickets.
⏳ Stay stuck in the current, less-than-ideal role.

I’ve been there, and I’ve seen it countless times. Most people want the discomfort of their current work situation to disappear yesterday. A new job feels like the obvious cure.

But here’s the kicker:
A few months (or years) later, they’re back in the same loop. It’s exhausting.

If you want to really break the cycle, some self-reflection now can save you time and frustration later.

Instead of jumping straight to job applications, focus on getting clear on what you truly want.

5 Things to Do Before Updating Your Resume

Instead of jumping straight into job applications, take a step back. Get clear on what actually matters to you. This will save you time, frustration, and yet another job that feels “off.”

1️⃣ Define Your Core Values

This is the first step to career clarity and fulfillment. Ask yourself:

• What truly matters to me in my career and life?
• To what extent are my actions and decisions reflecting my core values right now?

If your job isn’t aligned with your values, no amount of title changes will make it fulfilling.

2️⃣ Identify Your Strengths

This isn't just about what you're good at—it’s about what energizes you.

• What tasks or activities leave you feeling motivated and fulfilled?
• When do you feel most in flow at work?

Imagine building a career that lets you use these strengths every day.

3️⃣ Explore Your Passions and Interests

Passions are the fuel that makes work feel meaningful and exciting.

• What activities, topics, or challenges light you up?
  
• How can you incorporate more of these into your next career move?
  

4️⃣ Analyze Your Current Work—What’s Working, What Isn’t

Track for two weeks when you feel excited and when you feel drained.

• What parts of your job do you genuinely enjoy?
• What tasks make you feel exhausted or disengaged?

Understanding what works (and what doesn't) is key to setting yourself up for success. You might be surprised by what you learn about yourself

5️⃣ Discover What Sparks Joy (And What Drains It)

Joy isn’t a luxury—it’s a guide to what makes work truly rewarding.

• What moments in your day bring a sense of flow or fulfillment?
• How can you design your next role to include more of those moments?

6️⃣ Bonus: Define Your Dream Job (Without Worrying About Titles or the Organization)

Forget job titles and company names for a moment. Instead, ask:

• What tasks and responsibilities would I love doing daily?
• What kind of environment helps me thrive?

Where Will You Start?

No more rinse-and-repeat job searches. When you know what lights you up and aligns with who you are, you’ll approach your career clarity and purpose. 

Discover how to lead and live on purpose - one step at a time.

🔹 Want to explore what’s next for you? Let’s connect and map out your next step.