You may have observed that people you work or otherwise interact with are living each day on autopilot without a clear focus or purpose. Most individuals I interact with are comfortable with their daily routine and rarely change their patterns. My reason for writing on this topic is to inspire those who may feel they are destined to continue on this mundane path or do not have the strength or self-confidence to venture into the unknown and make a change that could affect their life in order to achieve a positive outcome.
My focus on this subject is only directed at career choices and does not involve your personal situation outside of your chosen line of work. As a mentor and leader, I believe this is the area in which I may be able to offer the most valuable guidance.
Take Small Steps and Set Realistic Goals
Let’s first agree that everyone has the opportunity to make changes in the course of their career depending upon their personal confidence level. This will vary based upon experiences—family nurturing and educational achievements, to name a few. If, for example, an individual has received many accolades over the years for surpassing his or her goals or beating the competition, this person is more likely to have the self-confidence to make changes periodically without much hesitation to remain focused on his or her career path. This is not always the case, however, since self-confidence has many thresholds, and each individual is unique in this realm.
If you realize you want to make a change in your career but feel there are too many barriers, you may need to talk with a mentor or a successful, confident leader. Too often, self-doubt is the primary factor, and it reinforces the obstacles you want to overcome. Take small steps and set realistic goals to gain your confidence. Remember the old saying: “If you’re searching for that one person who will change your life, take a look in the mirror.” I often hear associates state many reasons they are unable to make a change in their career, and they frequently blame someone else.
If you have self-imposed barriers and feel this is not the right time, then start planning for the change you want in your life. If you keep postponing a challenge, it may be too late by the time you are ready. In my personal career path, I took many risks and made mistakes, but as I reflect on my achievements, they have far outweighed the failures, and I have no regrets. We hear many success stories in the media, and sometimes we may think they were lucky. Or we think, “I wish I could have accomplished what this person achieved in life.” This should be a motivator. If you research these people’s backgrounds, you probably will uncover many failures they had to overcome to be successful.
Take Abraham Lincoln, for example: In 1832, he lost his job. In 1833, he failed in a new business. In 1835, his sweetheart died. In 1836, he had a nervous breakdown. In 1838, he was defeated for Speaker of the House in Illinois; 1843, defeated for nomination for Congress; 1849, rejected for land officer; 1854, defeated for U.S. Senate; 1856, defeated for nomination for Vice President; 1858, again defeated for U.S. Senate. Finally, in 1860, he was elected President. He continued to be defeated, but he had the strength and self-confidence to get back up and eventually obtain the highest office in the U.S. I include this example to inspire those who are not reaching within to become the person they want to be.
Start Seeking the Next Opportunity Now
If you are on the edge and just lack the confidence to make a significant change—such as moving to another company, relocating to a desired geographic location, or changing fields— prepare for the endeavor, plan your timeline, and do it. Every move I have made has increased my confidence or transitional knowledge. You might be forced to make a change due to layoffs or staff re-alignment. In this economic environment, you may not have a choice and find yourself out of a job. It is how you react to this situation that will determine your next phase in your career path. I find the best method is to start seeking the next opportunity right away. Always have your resume up to date and professionally done, no matter what line of work you have chosen.
Periodically access your situation with reference to your career. Ask yourself: Am I happy in my work environment? Do I look forward to each day at work? Am I preparing myself for the next promotion or next position? Do I feel a sense of accomplishment with my achievements at work? Do not judge your work by accolades you want or rewards earned. Remember, this is your life, and what matters most is what you believe will be the best for your future. Yes, rewards, certificates, and recognition are always welcome, but it is not what drives the successful employee. Self-motivation and a desire to excel are the primary building blocks for career advancement.
Don’t Be Complacent
In conclusion, always prepare for your future, no matter where you are along your career path. Try not to become complacent and believe this is all there is and this is the best you can do. If you reinforce this belief, you will create a higher barrier to cross to make the changes you need to make. Associate yourself with positive thinkers—their energy will be infectious. Remember: When an airline captain places a plane on autopilot, he or she gives up his control and is just cruising.
Richard B. Secord is a sales consultant, author, trainer, and a U.S. Army veteran.
