In our society, so much of who we are is identified by what we do meaning our job or career. But weve somehow gotten it backwards over the years. It isnt what we do that identifies us, but who we are thats important. The self that is brought to work each morning, that is present in our interactions, and that manages to shine through whether we are poor or Fortune 100 CEOs is the real essence of who we are. It is that essence that can help us make a job or career, that we do not like, into a learning experience and a vehicle for letting our inner light shine through.

Each day we hear of people that are very unhappy in their careers, downsizing and lay-offs. Unfortunately it is very common in todays world. While there are many people who complain and feel down-trodden, there are also those that seem to be able to make the best of a bad situation, no matter what. How do they do that? They have a strong sense of self and, typically, a very healthy dose of optimism.

Take George, for instance. George is a cab driver. He was laid off from his 15-year job with a large company and had to secure employment immediately to be able to continue to care for his family. A friend told him about a cab company that was looking for dependable drivers and George knew that this was the perfect temporary solution for him. So he applied for the job and began driving the next week. George does not like driving a cab, he would prefer to be back in his old office doing the job he loved, but he knows that this is what is needed of him for the moment.

George could be sullen or sarcastic about these life-changing events. He could be distant, obnoxious, or rude to his customers but he isnt. In fact, George has many fares request him! They find him always cheerful and funny. He smiles and jokes with them as he whisks them to their destinations and inevitably, he is known for his ability to help brighten someone elses day. George has the ability of using his inner light to make a difference in the lives of others.

Everyone can identify qualities in themselves that they both like and dislike. Too often we dwell on the areas that we feel need improvement and spend barely a nanosecond (if any seconds) patting ourselves on the back for things we consider to be good. When was the last time you actually acknowledged those positive inner light qualities within you?

So here is an exercise. Take out a sheet of paper and make a list of those things about yourself that you consider to be good qualities. Once youve made your list, Id like you to sit back and review how you implement these qualities in your everyday life. Ill bet you will find that you either do them automatically or that you do not exhibit them nearly enough. In fact, I bet that once you have your list in hand, you will immediately be able to come up with ways where you can put them to use.

That is the goal. To draw from this bag of inner light qualities and have them become the essence of who you are as you apply them to your daily interactions. From this, you will begin to experience a much more positive existence. You will find yourself looking for ways to implement these qualities, learn not to dwell on the negative, and seek out ways to make a difference in your life and the lives of others. It is a way to step out of yourself and learn to love and appreciate the work and life that you have, even if they are not what you ultimately desire. In short, it is a way of living in the moment that will produce startling results. Remember the Laws of Attraction. Want to bet that when you start exuding energy, lightness, and laughter that those same qualities will begin manifesting themselves in your life at a more rapid pace? You already know the answer.So get out your pen and paper and start writing.

While youre at it, why not come up with at least 5 positive things to say about the job/career you have now? Ill even get you started I appreciate the fact that I have a job that helps me make ends meet. In case you do not currently have a job, this ones for you I appreciate the fact that I have a well-earned break from the work force. See how easy that was? Now its up to you to let that inner light shine through.

Eva Gregory

Eva Gregory is a master coach, speaker & author. She specializes in empowering individuals to produce outstanding results in their lives. Eva empowers her clients in both their business & personal lives. Her unwavering belief that we all have the power to change anything in our lives & design it purposefully, is what helps her clients realize their own possibilities. Her background includes 20+ years in marketing, finance & operations with a Fortune 100 corporation; as marketing director of a software start-up firm; & founder of Leading Edge Coaching & Training. She's developed several courses & instructed thousands on the Laws of Attraction. She is regularly featured on radio and in the media & is a recognized authority on the Laws of Attraction.

Author of the internationally-acclaimed book, The Feel Good Guide to Prosperity, Eva is currently working on her next book, Chicken Soup for the Prosperous Soul with Jack Canfield of Chicken Soup? fame.

Eva's new radio show, The Thrive Factor can be heard globally on Voice America Business Radio, Mondays at 12 noon Pacific/3pm Eastern.