One recent morning on a walk, surrounded by trees, I found myself reflecting on the expression "barking up the wrong tree." The more I considered it, the more I realized how well it applies to our careers.

And how do we decide when to stop barking up a particular tree?

How would you rate your work ethic? How would your co-workers describe it? And why does it matter for your career change process?  Simply defined, work ethic is a collective term that incorporates multiple character traits that represent your commitment to completing work thoroughly, consistently and with integrity.

Just like elite athletes, career changers need to possess certain traits to succeed. What better time to consider the similarities as the world watches elite athletes compete in the summer Olympics.

When was the last time you took time to pause and reflect about your work or professional goals or a possible career change? Learn how to begin a practice of reflection and see your plans evolve and move forward.