I was walking through Central Park the other day and heard a street musician singing “Nowhere Man” by the Beatles. It’s not as if I’ve never heard the words before. In fact, as most people across many different generations, I know the words by heart. BUT, I have never really listened to them. And I know that this song means different things to different people. But if taken literally, they convey a message that resonates with me.

You may know these words well, but read them anyway and then continue reading this post.

He’s a real nowhere man                                                                                                 Sitting in his nowhere land

Making all his nowhere plans for nobody                                                                    Doesn’t have a point of view

Knows not where he’s going to                                                                                        Isn’t he a bit like you and me?

Nowhere Man, please listen                                                                                             You don’t know what you’re missing

Nowhere Man, the world is at your command                                                              He’s as blind as he can be

Just sees what he wants to see                                                                                       Nowhere Man can you see me at all?

Nowhere Man, don’t worry                                                                                              Take your time, don’t hurry

Leave it all till somebody else lends you a hand                                                            Doesn’t have a point of view

Knows not where he’s going to                                                                                         Isn’t he a bit like you and me?……

Aimless, rootless, going nowhere, this is a song about someone who is stuck.

I’m a career management coach and personal branding strategist so my mind goes right to the topic of careers. For me, it brings to mind what a professional with a strong personal brand and good career management skills should have:

1. A strategic plan based on professional goals – know where you are going and create a plan for how to get there. Reach high and set your goals so they are a reach and not a slam dunk.

2.  A strong point of view –strong opinions based on knowledge and experience enable you to stand out from your competitors – you want to be known for something.  So take a stand and stand out.

3.  An ability to see beyond your own vision and accept opinions outside your own. Outside advisors, mentors, colleagues, and sponsors are all great sources of information and feedback. They help you take a step back before you take a step forward.

4.  An understanding that the world is filled with opportunities – and being willing and prepared to capture these opportunities puts you in charge.

5. An awareness of other people, their needs and abilities, and how you can help each other.

6. A strong community of friends, colleagues, and supporters around you – they can help provide you with a rich and happy life. Build and strengthen your tribe.

So let this song be a reminder of what it’s like to be a “Nowhere Man” – and only you can judge – is he a bit like you?

What does this song bring up for you?  Please share.

Want to get unstuck? Contact me.