Career moves and major changes can be frightening and filled with self-doubt. How do you know when you’re really ready to make that move or take on something bigger? Some of us have the tendency to get in our way thus making ourselves our biggest obstacle. But there are signals you can look for in your life and body when it comes to knowing when the time is right for a next level move.
Sheer boredom
This first signal is going on the assumption that at some point you actually enjoyed the work you do. Getting to the point where you have absolutely zero interest in the tasks you are performing or the outcome is a sure signal that it’s time to move on to more challenging and satisfying things.
Not a no-brainer
Mental wellness has finally started to get the recognition and respect it deserves and with good reason. Mental health issues will affect about 80% of people at some point in their lives. Our jobs and careers are major factors in our lives, increasing the chances of developing career-related mental health issues. The way we earn a living shouldn’t require so much effort that just getting there and being there has a negative impact on our health or the way we view everyday life.
Career coveting
Most of us have or will experience jealousy at some point, it’s one of the secondary emotions you almost can’t avoid. The interesting thing about jealousy is that it isn’t really a problem; jealousy is a symptom of a problem. Feeling pangs of envy when others talk about their profession could be a symptom that you are yearning to be fulfilled on another level.
Money talks
Has the phrase “I only do this ‘cause I need the money” ever left your mouth? If money is the only thing keeping you in your position, and you have recurring dreams of hitting the lottery and not even bothering to call in and quit, your next level is calling. Sure, most of us need to earn a living, but a paycheck should not be the one and only thing you are deriving from your current situation.
Now what?
When you start to notice one or more of these signals, it’s time to do some investigating. Why are you bored? What has changed? What or who are the reasons for dreading to go in? What aspects of someone else’s career do you find interesting?
The answer may not always lie in switching companies. Exploring opportunities within your current organization may be an option, even if it requires a location change. Remember that your next level doesn’t necessarily have to be up because a lateral move can be just as effective.
When contemplating a complete career change, be sure to do a skill assessment. What are the skills necessary for the career you desire? How do you obtain them? Perhaps you need to take classes to gain additional certifications before you take that leap. Whatever you decide, just follow it up with action. Don’t let you be the very thing holding you back.
