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.

Let’s have a look at how a prop can give you the confidence to walk into a new space with your head held high, or help a gatekeeper take you seriously.

One of my clients was laid off from a job she loved last summer. She was constantly on the lookout for new roles, but few postings felt like the right fit for her—and the ones that did weren't leading anywhere.

In one of our coaching sessions, she said: “I think I need to Good Will Hunting this whole thing.”

I laughed. “What does that mean?”

She explained: “Write my own role and cast myself.”

I groaned, because I felt such a visceral YESSSS bubble up from my core.