Afraid of Changing Careers? And So You Should Be
Fear is unavoidable and, to a large extent, healthy in career transitions. Don’t aim to ‘get over it’ — instead, let it do its job
Research puts significant career change among some of the most stressful life events. No surprise there. Worry, anxiety and fear are regulars in my coaching conversations. In fact, they are welcome companions — their absence is a red flag, a sign of rose-tinted glasses being worn.
How we handle fear is what matters. Some let themselves be swallowed, others ‘get over it’ by denying its presence — both equally unproductive approaches. Fear, instead, is best seen as a guide. If used effectively, it risk-proofs a career transition and increases the likelihood of its success. Here is how.
It makes us do our due diligence
Even seasoned C-level executives frequently make career moves they regret. The most common reason, accounting for over 20% of unsuccessful moves, is not enough research.
Executives who routinely scrutinise information given to them and require proper due diligence for strategic decisions, neglect to do likewise when it comes to their careers.
