Lately, I’ve found that far too many of the people I talk to have been telling me they feel stuck. They’re overwhelmed by the economy, discouraged by the job market, or trying to grow a business without any traction.
I have to say, it’s tough to hear. It sounds an awful lot like defeatism, which never does anyone any good.
Don’t get me wrong; I’m not in denial! Nobody’s operating at “business as usual“ and seeing the same results these days. If you’re having a tougher time than usual, you’re certainly not alone.
But the way I see it, that’s all the more reason to make a shift and evaluate your current situation. One of the key components to have in place is structure.
Without structure, you’re building a house of cards. One small gust – bad news, a missed opportunity, a tough day – and the whole thing collapses.
Whether you’re job hunting or running a business, structure isn’t optional. It’s the foundation that holds it all together, creating and conveying the kind of confidence that attracts opportunities.
If you’re in a career transition, structure means having a consistent schedule, a straightforward process, and real accountability. Otherwise, it’s too easy to spiral into self-doubt or sit in front of your computer all day “researching” and calling it progress.
If you’re trying to grow your coaching business, winging it won’t work anymore (even if it did in the past). You need a plan: Consistent outreach, clear offers, and systems to stay focused.
Think like a seasoned architect or contractor: Start with the blueprint. Know what you’re building and why. Then, follow a process that’s organized, efficient, and rooted in your goals. That’s how you create something solid that can weather a storm.
It doesn’t have to be perfect. But you need something concrete – a plan, a schedule, an edifice to shelter and support you.

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