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It is a question many are asking themselves these days:

“If (or, when) AI takes my job or changes my business, what will I do?”

People have always thought that getting to a point in life where you don’t have to work would be a pleasant kind of utopia. You, no doubt, have seen the ideal lifestyle ads. It is why everyone works so hard to reach a financial goal or to save for retirement.

But when faced with that possibility in real life, as thousands are today, they also realize it would bring a sense of loss and, for some, uncertainty.

But here’s the thing: you are still you.

Working, not working, starting a new career, or retired – you are still you. As such, you bring a unique set of strengths, skills, and life experiences.

And, so, the question is really a matter of purpose.

How can I find purpose in my next phase of life, or if I am replaced in my current job?

And the answer is the same, whether you are gainfully employed, own a business, are searching for your next career, or are winding down toward retirement. It is about learning your strengths and finding ways to apply them in service to others. The others you serve may change in different phases of life, but having these two factors working together brings purposeful satisfaction.

Your status or type of work may change, but if you focus on strengths and service, you can make the necessary pivots.

Here are some ways you can find purpose in any phase of life.

Define Your Values

Learn what is important to you. Define your boundaries and your non-negotiables. These give you a solid foundation.

Learn Your Strengths

Knowing your strengths gives you confidence. It also helps you channel those innate strengths into new avenues of service when change warrants.

Find Those You Can Serve

Family, friends, customers, clients, co-workers, and your community – each of these brings an opportunity to serve. If you are pivoting into a new business or career, or retiring, start with learning your strengths and then ask, “Who can I serve?”

Look for needs, and fill those needs.

Grow

Growth is a sign of life. This is why it is important to always be learning and striving to improve each area of life. Growth feeds others, and it energizes you.

Collaborate

No one has all the answers, especially today. But collaborating with others (especially those of different strengths) helps you see new possibilities and identify new opportunities.

Communicate

Communication builds relationships, and those are more important than ever.

Celebrate

Finally, yes, celebrate! When you reach a collaborative goal in your work, celebrate with those who helped make it happen. When you learn a new skill, celebrate your success. When you start your new phase of life or work, celebrate the new beginning.

For valuable resources on Leadership Strengths and Tools, click here.

Deb Ingino is a highly sought-after executive coach, mentor, consultant, and speaker worldwide. Deb is well versed in business operations and in the importance of asking key questions most business leaders won’t ask themselves. She brings deep experience in leadership development, strategy, high performance team building and effective communication. She has a passion for leading people to discover and maximize their strengths as well as those of fellow team members, while offering advanced strategies to achieve high performance. Deb is the perfect fit if you’re ready to take your leadership and impact to the next level!