A year ago I was feeling “Blah.” I wasn’t happy at my job and I needed a change. At the time I was being Coached by a certified Federal Career Coach and she pushed me to take ownership over my career situation and to take action.

I spoke up! I was troubled by situations in the workplace and used my voice to suggest positive changes. Top Concerns: Communication and Professional Development.

I took action! I volunteered for a rotational assignment focused on leadership development. My temporary role was to plan the Leadership Development Conference at my agency for Senior Executives and Managers and to inform the employees about the Senior Executive Training offered by the Treasury Executive Institute. I took full advantage of the opportunity to learn and grow. I also learned that the government offers Interagency Rotational Assignments (opportunities to work at other agencies) and Senior Executive Rotational Assignments for the Senior Executive Service (SES).

I invested in my professional development! During the year I was selected to train as a Federal Career Coach. I completed the Leadership Development Cohort for the Next Generation of Government. I earned my Masters Certificate in Project Management from George Washington University. Additionally, I completed Microsoft SharePoint training to learn the skills needed to build a Policy SharePoint site and Dashboard for my Program Office.

I learned that if I’m unhappy where I am it’s up to me to take action to change the situation! I was not stuck. I had to take the necessary steps to lean forward. Ask yourself this question: What actions do you need to take today to live the life that you love?