mold, mould, mole‐d: the three m's of career development

Abstract

The author explores a creative idea development process wherein one begins by applying the image of "breaking the mold" to career development and then extending the process further by considering other related images. In this article, the related images include synonyms for mold such as mould and mole-d (the mole is a small burrowing animal with limited vision). Together, these images reflect current career development issues, such as the need for flexibility, health, and vision (sight and insight). These concepts have both practical and theoretical relevance for employment counselors.As the 21st century advances, there is little doubt that the career development field is undergoing dramatic changes . These changes are primarily the result of factors such as increasing globalization, advances in technology and information, and significant demographic shifts (Homer-Dixon, 2006) . Feller (2003) has made the case that given the current scenario, there is a need to align school counseling, the changing workplace, and career development assumptions .The challenge in mapping out this new landscape is finding the right set of tools to elaborate the new reality . Although a number of authors have made long lists of needed changes, there is also a need to structure information in such a way that it is more readily accessible . Gladwell (2000) referred to the importance of "stickiness" in helping people to take in new information (p . 89) . In other words, how should information be packaged so that it is understandable and memorable?Using metaphors is one way of helping to create a greater likelihood of stickiness (Amundson, 2005) . Metaphors also open up the possibility of an individual acquiring new insights by shifting perspectives . Through metophoric imagery, people create a shared language that allows for better communication (Wickman, Daniels, White, & Fesmire, 1999) . Metaphors help to open up possibilities, highlight experiences, and provide coherence and meaning for experience (Pistole, 2003) .In choosing a metaphoric lens for this process, I began with the concept of breaking down rigidity and embracing a more flexible and uncertain process . To capture this shift metaphorically, I focused on the phrase "breaking the mold ." From this

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