What if the key to your next career move isn't a grand plan, but a small spark of curiosity?
Years ago, I discovered the power of giving myself permission to explore—and it transformed my life. Let me share the story of how dabbling in curiosity led me to where I am today, and how it could guide your next steps too.
I worked as a career consultant at the University of Auckland for 8 years. I really admired the UoA's unique degree structure, one I wasn't exposed to when I was studying years before at my university.
Students could take General Education (GenEd) papers for points and purely out of interest—not because they were prerequisites or offered a competitive edge, but simply because they were curious.
Looking back, I regret not doing the same during my own university years. I spent five laser-focused years on my science degree and master's, and the career path I thought they'd lead to, driven by blind ambition. I never allowed myself to explore courses in psychology, anthropology, or sociology, even though they fascinated me. Ironically, those very subjects now form the foundation of my career—helping people understand themselves and find fulfilling paths.
It wasn't until a life-changing event forced me to pause and reassess that I gave myself permission to dabble.
I decided to explore anything that sparked my curiosity, no matter how uncertain or unconventional it seemed. I took painting, dancing, and acting classes. I attended retreats, read books, learned about my personality, and even tried my hand at facilitating personal development workshops.
Through this journey of exploration, I discovered a powerful truth:
Curiosity often holds the clues to our next steps.
Too often, we expect a lightning bolt of passion to illuminate our path. But most passions don't appear fully formed—they begin as quiet curiosities. And when we give ourselves permission to dabble, to experiment without needing an immediate result, life has a way of guiding us.
That's why I encourage my clients to embrace curiosity when navigating career change. Dip your toe in the water. Try new things. Follow the faint sparks of interest and see where they lead.
Indulge in your fascinations, your curiosities. Don't wait until you know how you make them pay off your mortgage before you start. Who knows if they ever will? Knowing isn't the point. Inviting the things to be a bigger part of your life is the point.
Because here's the thing: you can't build a career—or a life—around something you haven't explored.
Dabbling is Essential!
I made a short video for you where I share more about this story and how you can apply it to your own career journey.
So, what are you curious about? What's one thing you've always wanted to try?
You don't need to have all the answers yet. Just start with curiosity—and let the rest unfold.
To your next step,
xoxo Liz
P.S Ready to turn your curiosities into a fulfilling career path? Let's work together 1:1 to uncover what truly sparks your interest and create a career that feels aligned, meaningful, and exciting. Book a free clarity call today to take the first step toward building a life you love.
CLIENT TESTIMONIAL
"I loved the experience of private coaching with Liz. Talking openly about my career and insecurities isn't easy, but having a safe, supportive space and with someone external and fresh was so valuable.
Liz helped me explore my personality, what excites me, and my career direction. I've gained clarity, self-awareness, and I found using her tools to challenge my negative thoughts effectively game changing."
Eliza
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