We start to make work choices at the age of 14. This is the time that most of us pick our GCSE subjects. We are guided by teachers, family, and our own interests. Understandably, at that age we’re also guided by which teachers we like and those we don’t. Indeed, think back to your time at secondary school. What influenced you back then? Would the same things influence you now? Suddenly, 20 or more years later, you’re working and thinking back to those choices, realising that you are somewhere other than where you’d really like to be. So, ask yourself. Is your current world of work working for you?
On one hand, it does feel a little strange to be making choices at 14 which can impact the rest of your life. Those choices led to options at 16, with further choices at 18, and then at 21 if you’ve continued onto university. Consequently, you’ve mapped out a career path based on decisions at 14. How realistic is that?
On the other hand, does it really matter? Gone are the days when you start a career, a job, a vocation, for life. Most people now, or so the research says, have between 4 and 9 different careers or jobs during their working lives. We’re living longer and having to work for longer so, why not pursue what works for you now? When that stops working, why not move on to something else?
Obviously, it all makes perfect sense and it is all so easy. And now let’s get real. Jumping from job to job may be really straight forward for some. If this is you, get on with it, get applying, and on to the next adventure.
Realistically, though, you may not find it that easy. With bills to pay, a family to support, a lifestyle to maintain, jumping from job to job may not be so practical. At least, this is what you say to yourself.
And that, for many, maybe for you, is what stops you moving forward. Remarkably, you’re very good at convincing yourself of all the reasons that you cannot make changes, because the thought of change is just too scary.
Stay stuck, then, if you really can’t bear the thought of change. Stay where you are for another 5 years. Another 10 years. And then, 10 years more. Seriously, if you can see yourself doing the same old, same old until you retire, go for it!
Alternatively, take a step back. Look at what is working (pardon the pun) for you. Establish what could be working better. Understand what you want to change.
If there are sound reasons for staying put, that’s OK. Make the plans for a future date. See what comes into your awareness once you make those well-formed plans. Your future may be sooner than you think.
If you know what to do, do it now. If you’re not sure, book an initial consultation here, and then take the next step. You know that you can do it, and you know that it makes sense, don’t you?