There’s no denying I'm an ambitious lass, but what I’ve realised more over the years is that it can be easy to focus on progressing onwards and upwards in my career, simply because the opportunity is there in front of me.
But you know what, it’s not always the best way to travel.
So many of us keep going up, up, up, without ever taking a moment to step back and check-in with ourselves to shift from ambition to conscious ambition.
So, let’s do it now. Take a deep breath, relax your shoulders as you breath out, think about your current career focus and ask yourself: Do I really want this?
As a side note, if you want more help to work it out then this career clarity freebie should help.
I always find it interesting when clients have their ah-ha moment and realise they actually want to go sideways rather than up (at that time). That it's a job in a different department, project or industry that really makes them light up rather the promotion they were hell bent on.
Now I’m not saying career side-steps are right for everyone, but I do think it’s worth taking a moment to consider sideway options just as much as upward options any time you start to question your career.
Career side-steps can provide an incredible opportunity to get you back onto your authentic career path.
So, if career side-steps are so incredible then why is there a negative stigma associated with them?
I’ve discovered that the root of these strange negative stigmas more often than not come down to three questions we ask ourselves, rather than those asked by others.
1. What will others (colleagues, family, friends) think of this decision?
Many of us have been brought up in an environment that encourages hard work and the pursuit of a certain career path, one in which side-steps, or dare I say it, a change in career all together hasn’t really been a point of conversation. There’s no doubt times are changing and we’re now the ones making that change, for those alongside us, above us, and future generations.
Let me assure you that no matter how you feel others may judge you in regards to your decision, here’s what taking a career side-step truly shows:
- Bravery
- That you are serious about your career
- That you acknowledge all the effort you’ve put in over the years has enabled you to come to a point in which you can take a side-step, continuing your career progression rather than hindering it
2. Is it worth giving up a good job when I may not like the side-step?
I simply ask that you challenge the authenticity of this question…is the risk really that large?
Like any new job, whether up, down or sideways, you can usually find a similar position if you don't like your new one (I know it’s easier said than done, but it’s still true).
No experience or knowledge is wasted. It all helps you refine and define what you like and where you want to be. That's the beauty of life!
3. What if I don't get the new position?
This is often an ego problem and I'm not saying that to belittle you. When we talk about ego in this case, we are talking about feeling vulnerable.
There’s no doubt that it is vulnerable to go for a new position.
It is vulnerable to say that you want it and that you might like a change.
It is vulnerable to not get the position.
It is vulnerable to start the new position.
But here’s the thing, vulnerability is a given in life. Vulnerability is uncomfortable, it is hard, but it is also the precursor to everything good! It's intertwined within new experiences of all kinds, amazing jobs, amazing careers and amazing businesses!
So enough already with the relentless climb for climbing's sake.
It’s time to shimmy, samba or salsa your way sideways if that is what you truly desire!
Get your footing then if or when you want to, continue your climb up, providing it’s the right ladder for you.
Here's to following YOUR path!
Much love,
Lara xx
P.S. Did you hear about my amazing women's country retreat coming up in 2018?! It's going to be heaven on a stick. Check out the details here!
P.P.S. There is so much more to say about career moves! If you would like support side-stepping your way to joy in your career, I can help you feel so much better at work in the meantime and to start the New Year in fine form! Simply pop your details below and we can have a complementary 60 minute career clarity session to get going.
Photo by jens johnsson on Unsplash