Reaching for the Top of a Different Ladder

Written by West Toronto Counselling Member, Doug Schmidt

Published CMA Magazine, October 2005

There are an increasing number of people who are looking for greater satisfaction from the work that they do. For whatever the reason, you may want to make some changes, possibly radical, in your work life. You're not alone. This article gives you six steps to better understand your aspirations and make sure you're striving for the right goals. 

What Color Is My Parachute:  Richard Bolles, Ten Speed Press (2010 Edition)

This has been the bestselling job-search book in the world for more than three decades. Revised annually, and selling more than 10 million copies, this year's edition is streamlined to help those struggling to find part-time and full-time employment in these difficult economic times.

Richard Bolles has been a leader in the career development field for more than thirty-five years.

What Next?:  Barbara Moses, Doris Kindersley Publishing, (Updated Edition 2009)

Author Barbara Moses offers guidance for those who find themselves in work that does not suit them or their career is stalled and they have a growing sense of frustration. An excellent book for anyone who is feeling that a change is due but unsure of what that next step is or is unsure about hot to take that step.

This film is a must see for those who find themselves mourning the loss of someone close to them or know someone who is somewhere in the grieving process. Winner of the 2008 Oscar for Best Foreign Film, Departures chronicles one significant chapter in the life of protagonist Daigo Kobayashi, from the time Daigo loses his job as cellist in a bankrupt orchestra until the time that he finds and buries the father he never knew.  It is the type of film that not only moves us but expands our capacities for appreciating many aspects of our life.

This film was favourably reviewed in the Bereavement Ontario Network Spring 2010 Newsletter and by many film critics.  

"It will resonate with anyone who has ever buried a loved one and struggled to reconcile the myriad  emotions — grief, anger, helplessness. Which is to say, everyone."

  - David Edelstein , New York Magazine

"It's a deeply touching movie exploring an incredible range of emotions. Unforgettable."

     - Jeffrey Lyons , Reel Talk