How do you even think about career change, a self-employment leap, or making any business decisions when the economy and safety nets feel, and are, so unstable and untrustworthy?
It’s easy to want to just freeze and wait it out, which feels logical to one part of our brain. But, wait for what?? Waiting for some unknown future kinda feels illogical too.
What I’m seeing in reality is a lot of people moving forward exploring better possibilities anyway, not just with big leaps and big boldness, but with small steps, exploring, learning, finding their footing, talking it out, connecting with community for support, etc. Taking small steps is how anything new starts.
We’re not stopping. We’re choosing to listen to the part inside that doesn’t want to freeze or stay stuck. And we go one step at a time, testing the waters, and letting in support.
“But this time is really intense.”
This new level of uncertainty is definitely intense and hard-hitting, and it tries to get in the way of my calm and perseverance too. It has not been easy.
It’s always job #1 to do some good self-care, which for most of us includes not staying alone with it all. We need our people especially now.
Even amidst it all, I keep seeing people moving forward anyway. They are putting their faith in their ability to figure things out, turning toward community, and trusting in their own heart signals.
Our perseverance amidst hard times reminds me of the song, “This Joy” with the line: “This joy that I have, the world didn’t give it to me, and the world can’t take it away.”
I’ve discovered that when we scratch the surface, I and most everyone has a part inside that says:
“Ya know, I’ve lived through rocky confusing times before and I found my way eventually, and I don’t want to just sit around and wait. There are steps I can take to explore and experiment, and go slowly so that I can test the ground before taking any big leaps.”
You have the ability to figure things out too, and this quick tip can help you remember how.
What about job transition during a tight job market?
I’m sorry if you’re feeling discouraged in a job search. Even in a positive job market, a job search can be so disheartening and confusing.
A good job search coach can be an understanding support with the worries, and help you find more confidence and hope even in uncertain times. Working with a job search coach also helps you discover new avenues that you hadn’t seen before.
Let’s weigh the options of waiting or not.
What are the options anyway?
- Wait and stay wondering what the future might hold.
Potential Result: Burning out because you don’t have a light at the end of the tunnel, feeling stuck in something that just isn’t right for you. Which could lead to quitting without a new step lined up. - Take time now to explore more about yourself and what you want.
Potential Result: Then you’re more able to sculpt your current work in that direction because you know better what works for you. I see this happen a lot. Plus you’re more ready for #3. - Explore ideas for what will be a good fit for you.
Potential Result: You’ll be much more ready to move towards something new (now or later) if you’ve done that exploration work in #2 and #3.
Career Exploration Methods to Make It Easier
- I explain a calm clear method for exploring and choosing the best use of you now:
Career Clarity Course for Introverts and HSPs. - Working with an understanding job search coach can help you discover new options you hadn’t thought possible before:
Job Search Coaching for Introverts, HSPs, and Neurodivergence. - If you like the idea of a support group as you go through your exploration and transition process, consider:
Sensitive on Purpose: Career Transition Support Group
