It’s tempting to think a career overhaul is the solution to feeling stuck at work. But before you make the leap, pause. A radical change is a significant investment of time and energy—and often, it’s not even necessary. Here’s how to figure out your next step.
Understand your context. Life’s upheavals, like personal challenges and workplace uncertainty, can amplify dissatisfaction. Before deciding to make a drastic change, ask yourself: Is this a normal period in my life, or am I reacting to external pressures? Give yourself time to reflect and revisit the idea after the dust settles.
Stay flexible. Career decisions are usually complex and ambiguous, not straightforward. Explore multiple options and consider where they might lead—for example, to upskilling, switching jobs, or staying the course. Ambivalence can lead to surprising insights.
Make an informed decision. Excitement for a new path can be blinding. Take time to gather real-world data. Talk to people in the field. Investigate the lifestyle. Avoid big commitments until you’re sure. Most fulfilling transitions are built on months of exploration, not impulsive leaps. |
