The very first thing I do with any client I work with over time is guide them in a process to define their core values. Values are the principles by which you live your life—the things that you hold close to your heart. Whether you know it or not, your values drive the decisions you make, your sense of satisfaction and fulfillment, and points of friction and connection with others.

Your career doesn’t have to be a straight line. Learn how to navigate your career path with new strategies, tools, and resources.

Our understanding of career stability is being challenged and redefined like never before. So if change is a given, we’ve got to get better at navigating it. Whether you're contemplating a career pivot, facing industry shifts, or simply seeking to infuse your career path with more intentionality, this post is your guide. 

American culture teaches us that self-sufficiency and independence are synonymous with success. In a highly individualistic culture, accomplishing things on your own is a virtue. I think we’re getting it wrong. Opening ourselves up to receiving help can be humbling, vulnerable, scary, and courageous. It’s learning to gracefully receive help from others that’s a virtue—and a needed professional skill.

As a career coach, I’ve learned that the driver for every reason is one of two things: (1) Purpose: moving towards something you want. (2) Fear: preventing or avoiding something you don’t want. Here’s how to figure out what’s driving you…

Seven years ago, when Penney Leadership launched, I set off in my little solo spacecraft. I exited my home planet on Nonprofit and began my journey across the vast solar system.