Dr. Hamaria Crockett is a Career Coach at Korn Ferry. Hamaria uses positive psychology principles and her expertise as a humanist psychologist to help individuals focus on their strengths and characteristics that allow them to succeed and prosper within their careers. 

Here is what Hamaria had to say when we asked her about the power of purpose and positive psychology:

GenHERation®: What are three actionable steps people can take to find their purpose?

Dr. Hamaria Crockett: Your purpose is defined by what you are passionate about, so how can you find your passion? First, search within. Think about what you are already good at. That will give you an indication of what direction you should go in to find your purpose. Second, talk to those around you. Ask friends, family members, professors, mentors—people you trust—what they think you are good at. Sometimes others see our strengths that we ourselves do not recognize. Third, know what you hate! Your purpose should not be centered around things you dislike. It can take time to find your purpose and that is okay! It is more rewarding and meaningful to follow your own path and find your own treasure than to follow someone else’s path. However, once you find your purpose you can carry it with you throughout your career, even when your job title changes or you work at a new company. For example, you might discover your purpose is to help people. You can help people in healthcare, public relations, and tech.   

GenHERation®: How can you apply the principles of positive psychology to making important decisions, such as selecting a major or finding your first job?

Dr. Crockett: Positive psychology is a relatively new concept that was conceived in 1998 by a professor at Penn State. It is a science that is centered on the well-being of others and society that focuses on using positivity to make change. Based on that description, if I had to make a major decision as a positive psychologist, I would ask myself these questions: Why am I making this decision? Is it necessary? What is the best choice to make for right now? Then, I would do my research. If you want to move to New York, but have never lived there before connect with people who have and ask them questions. Remember, if you make the “wrong” decision, it is not really the wrong decision. You created a learning opportunity for yourself and a chance to figure out why your decision didn’t go as planned. 

GenHERation®: How do the principles of purpose, passion, and positive psychology relate to what you describe as “developing a wholesome lifestyle?”

Dr. Crockett: Your mind, body, and soul are three components that are all connected. If one area is not connected well, your life will not align. It is impossible to have complete balance in our lives all the time, but we can and need to have these three components in alignment. If one component is out of line, everything will be off. To be well, you need to be well holistically, so make sure you help yourself first. You know when you are not being your best self and other people can tell when you need oxygen. Do what you need to do to bring your mind, body, and soul in alignment to help yourself and others—if you are not well, you cannot help others either.

GenHERation®: How can people be more positive in their daily lives?

Dr. Crockett: Be happy and be grateful. Keep a gratitude journal and write down one or two things you are grateful for at the end of each day—even the little things. Try to give a positive spin on what might be negative. You were supposed to go on a run and now it is raining? Read that book you have been wanting to! Also, make time to show gratitude to others. Think of someone other than yourself and how you can show them kindness.

GenHERation®: What is your most important takeaway when it comes to becoming a passionate and purposeful leader?

Dr. Crockett: If you have started your journey in figuring out your passion and purpose that is half the battle. You do not need to have it all figured out right now. Just make sure you are on the pathway. Your life is a lattice, not a ladder. It will all work out. P.S. Never be afraid to tell yourself you rocked it today! 

Dr. Hamaria Crockett is a Career Coach at Korn Ferry. As a certified career coach, she coaches clients on how to find their purpose, master the job hunt, and connect their passion to their career. Hamaria uses positive psychology principles and her expertise as a humanist psychologist to help individuals focus on their strengths and characteristics that allow them to succeed and prosper within their careers. She began working in career services while working with the Department of Defense, assisting service members transitioning out of the military. Hamaria is a frequent speaker on topics, such as organizational culture, diversity and inclusion, change management, organizational leadership, and being true to yourself. Prior to Korn Ferry, Hamaria worked as an independent consultant establishing career centers across the country and as a professor. Hamaria is an award-winning author, writing on topics of authenticity and career services.