The Gap

The Gap is the distance between our goal and our accomplishment. It could also be the difference between who we are and who we think we should be. The Gap is insidious. It can steal our joy, our enthusiasm, our sense of accomplishment, our satisfaction in our career and our life. Are you like the Olympic athletes who feel they've failed because they're only number two in the world; they only got the silver medal, and nothing can console them?

How do we win over The Gap?

Start focusing on the accomplishment, on the victory of your new job. For many of us, this is extremely challenging, but it is possible with practice and persistence. Celebrate your really big victories with something tangible. In the midst of challenge, these concrete reminders give us an anchor to the brighter moments. Give yourself permission to make mistakes, to be less than perfect. Beef up your stress busting activities. Learn to ride the waves of change, so your career doesn't become capsized or get drowned in trivia.