Today's post is inspired by my dogs Duke and Koda (pictured above!). 

Whenever I walk into my home, their tails wag.

It doesn't matter the context. I could have just stepped out for ten seconds or returned after a week away. Their tails still wag. Along with it, there's an aroma of energy and interest exuding from their very being. 

Their tails also wag when they are: walking around the yard sniffing, munching on a stick, playing with each other, begging the neighbors for a pet, rolling in the mud, and more. Pretty much all the time, their tails are wagging!

While I have no idea what this experience is like for a dog, I can - and will - anthropomorphize it to my heart's content! Their joy and present-minded engagement are palpable and infectious.

So, how does this relate to personal and career growth?

Humans have a metaphorical "tail" too.

It can wag, conveying one's energy and aliveness. It can also droop, conveying a sense of discouragement and stuckness.

Consider this for yourself: 

Think about the last time you met with someone and discussed career matters outside of work. Perhaps it was at a networking event, a dinner party, or someone you met out walking your dogs! You asked them what they do for work, and listened to the response.

Was their "tail" wagging when they spoke about what they do? Did you get the sense that they enjoy their work and are immersed in it? Likewise, when you talked about your job, what were you like?

Was your "tail wagging"?

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I call this the "tail-wagging test"! 

If the feeling of such conversations were full of aliveness and interest, that is a wonderful sign! However, if the feelings were bereft of energy and tainted with feelings of discouragement (or worse), that's a warning. As a coach, I've learned to notice these subtle clues, as they are often a leading indicator that something is amiss and worth exploring deeply.

Not only does it feel good to have a wagging tail in life and while working (or even thinking about work!), but it also helps to unlock new levels of performance and clarity.

Pooh and Tigger are more effective than Eeyore.

Go Deeper

Take the tail-wagging test yourself.

Pay attention to the feeling and attitude you have about your work—while you are in the act of working, as well as when you are thinking about it and talking about it with others. Then ask yourself:

Is your tail wagging? If not, why?

What would help you get back to a nice feeling when thinking about, talking about, and doing your work?

Write down what comes to mind. Take whatever actions seem most helpful.

Then, in the comments below let me know what you think! 👇