I want a new job!
The Covid pandemic has caused many people to reflect more broadly than they had previously regarding how to spend their very precious, unique life.
So you think you may want something new? Whether you loved your work-life yesterday and aren’t so in love today or this thought has been in your head for some time, at some point each of us dreams of doing something else with our life.
I like to think of the thoughts in my head as messengers telling me what's happening within me when I am engaged in doing other things. These messengers can be soft and subtle, almost like a gentle nudge, a little uncomfortable.
Why is it that considering changing careers, a job or any change in your work-life is initially uncomfortable? When we understand how our brain works though, this makes perfect sense! Our brains are wired to keep us safe, conserve energy and avoid discomfort. Routine, status quo, rinse and repeat feels comfortable!
So when we think about change, our brain offers us all the reasons not to change anything. Some thoughts I have had are these—
I’ve spent so much time in this career I can't move now
I’ve invested in this career, it's too late to change.
Someone [insert name] will be so disappointed
I can never make this salary anywhere else! ( my favorite)
These limiting beliefs and thought errors keep us stuck, in place, not moving forward. Until the nudge becomes a kick!
What are some of the thoughts that come to mind when you think about creating a new job or career, a new work life?
So how to get started exploring when you feel the nudge to change? Start with you- the answer is inside you- not on social media or LinkedIn.
The first questions I ask my clients are: What do you want? It's surprising how generous this question lands especially for women. We are the supporters, and we have been socialized to provide others with what they want and need. Listen to how you answer this question. “I want…”
Here are a few more prompts to explore what's next for you!
What do you love about what you are doing now?
What would you like to see change in what you’re doing now? Why?
Why do you want this change?
What is on the other side between what you’re doing now and what you’d like to be doing that you want to create?
What would have to change, to make this change?
Who would you need to become to make this change?
Finally, not deciding is not the answer. Whatever you decide, like your answers and trust yourself. Now go explore!
