Q: I have been looking at my strengths and am realizing that they don’t always match my interests. Is it possible to have strong skills in a particular field that I really do not enjoy working in?

A: Absolutely. A wise friend once told me that just because you are good at something doesn’t mean you should be doing it for a living. I recently coached an attorney who was moving up in the ranks at her firm quite quickly. She was very adept at fulfilling each and every requirement of the job. However, she hated going to work everyday and found the work extremely boring.

Your individual strengths and talents may allow you to do a wide variety of jobs. Not every one of these jobs will fit your essential self in terms of schedule (hours spent at work), level of rigor (challenge) or the overall work environment. That’s why it is important to get a clear idea of what you really want from your life.

Your social self may tell you that if you can do the job well and it pays you a decent salary, just do it. Everything you need is set, met, and secure. However, your essential self may need more. At your core there is a desire to produce something else in life. Look at what that is telling you. The security of a cubicle job may be holding you back from greater success in life. However, don’t jump into something new right away because you’ve experienced a wave of likes and dislikes regarding your current position. Take some time to become aware of what it is you are striving for.

Laura Tirello is a Life and Career Coach.  Her company, Core Life Design, works with people who are looking to find their highest potential both in their careers and personal lives. She helps her clients develop a life plan for success and create a balanced life. For more information about Laura and her life coaching business, visit corelifedesign.com or e-mail Laura at Laura@corelifedesign.com.