There is definitely something to be learned by studying those who find their success by following their bliss. Here are some things that characterize those kinds of people.

• They have a zest for their work which fuels their zest for life.
• Most of the time they are happy and energetic and generally a breath of fresh air.
• They seem above the fray and are usually relaxed and composed.
• They are proud of their contributions and move along with confidence and ease.
• They will talk to anyone about what they do for a living with pride and enthusiasm.

How can anyone have that?

It begins with knowing it is possible, and believing you can tap into that kind of abundance. Then move to some visualization…see yourself in those shoes and feel it in your body as if you were already there!

• Imagine that others find you joyful to be around and that even complete strangers will support you in your goals.
• Be cognizant of when you are in a zone, when things are coming easily. These “flow” experiences are major hints that you are on the right track and they will help you identify your passion. Appreciate that feeling as often as you can. In fact, appreciate all good feelings you notice no matter what observation brings them!
• Look for people who are in a groove, study their success, and imagine how you would feel if you had results like them. Focus on the pieces that feel good to you and be inspired to your next action steps then enjoy and appreciate your progress as you go on your way.

New career mentor informational interviews added to the sample content area of CareerSparksClub.com. One titled “Get Your Opportunity Ears On” features Joyce Bone, author of “Millionaire Moms: The Art of Raising a Business and a Family at the Same Time.” The other with a retired human resources executive turned professional organizer for her encore career. That interview is with Karen Hancock of AmazingSpacesMacon.com and is titled, “Planning a Career.” Enjoy these complimentary podcasts!

I have been thinking about the money flow difference between coaching and mentoring and it has been good food for thought. Surely mentors get some other sort of compensation for their contributions (rather than the green stuff), maybe not from the person who sought out their expertise but from somewhere else. Or, maybe they do get something besides money from their mentees. They might receive stimulation for their own development and/or creativity; or they might simply get another set of ears to hear them speak about their passion which may feed their energy and motivation. That could be worth more than money because of the richness of the experience.

The role of mentor doesn’t actually have to be formalized and stuffy. I imagine many successful people give mentoring on a regular basis to several different people but likely in small doses due to busy schedules. Often when someone is successful in their field they are passionate about what they do and love to share their expertise. The key then is to find the people who are where you want to be and get some time with them. Here is one way to do that.

First, outline or journal what your career will look like when you arrive at the “next level.” What will you be doing in your work? What experience & education will you have achieved? How are you impacting your industry?

Second, find people who are already doing what you outlined for your “next level” self. Look for them in writing and speaking that is going on in your industry and in professional associations associated with your industry, or attend a conference or training, and search for them on LinkedIn.

Third, start a dialog with those you identify. Ask the question, “what advice do you have for someone who is interested in doing what you are doing?” Ask also how they stay up-to-date in the field. Be sure to thank them for their time by writing them a thank you note or email or a quick follow up phone call or message later. Consider them a part of your professional network and send info their way when you see or hear about something they might like to know.

Finally, be open to reciprocate when someone approaches you with the same questions about how you got where you are.