Episode 37: "Fulfilled Not Frustrated: Creating a Lab Career That's Right For You"

Are you a medical laboratory professional who feels unfulfilled, burnt out, or stuck in your current role? You're not alone. Many talented lab techs and scientists struggle to find meaning and satisfaction in their daily work. However, there are steps you can take to find or create a lab career that truly aligns with your passions, strengths, and professional goals. In this week's episode of Elaborate Topics, join host Lona Small as she provides guidance to help reinvigorate your passion and discover a rewarding career path in the laboratory. Lona draws from her own experiences overcoming setbacks and reinventing her career as well as insights from other seasoned lab professionals. Whether you're a new tech looking to explore different opportunities or a veteran seeking purpose beyond your current position, this episode will energize and empower you to take control of your career and reach new heights of professional fulfillment. Lona advises those at a career crossroads to explore new opportunities both inside and outside their field to find what lights them up. Volunteering can help build skills and satisfy curiosity. Knowing your core values through self-assessment will help identify the right roles and environments for you. Articulating these values helps in interviews and networking. Understand your unique core role by identifying your outstanding skills, the work that makes you happiest, and disciplines you're curious about. This shapes fulfilling roles. Know your personal attributes that suit desired roles. Use strengths like emotional intelligence and intellect as assets. Align physical abilities with role demands. Have a clear vision to picture yourself in a new role and provide direction and motivation towards that goal. Refer to episode 66 on vision setting. Do self-exploration to find roles that fulfill you rather than hopping between unfulfilling jobs. Start simple, like new techs trying different areas. Seasoned techs can do a core role inventory. Listen to the full episode for details. Call to Action We would love to feature YOU!!! Share your favorite takeaway from today's episode or anyone from this season: Video Review Be an eLABorate Supporter! 1.          Listen on directimpactbroadcasting.com, Spotify, Apple Podcast, or your favorite podcast platform2.          Become a member of LabVine at labvinelearning.com and listen to eLABorate Topics podcast on VineStream3.          Don’t forget to subscribe to the show on your phone, tablet, or notebook so you never miss an episode! 4.          Be sure to leave a comment, and share it with fellow medical laboratory professionals!5.          Join our eLABorate Topics Group on LinkedIn6.          Leave us a Video Review and we will feature you on our Social Media: Video Review Be a Guest on our show!If you have a leadership or laboratory message to share and would like to be a guest on the show, please reach out to us by completing the guest interest form or send us an e-mail us at elaboratetopics@directimpactbroadcasting.com. Please tune in next week to hear another amazing episode of eLABorate Topics!