Whether you’ve been working for 10 years or looking for your first job, you will definitely come face to face with challenging career choices. Often, these challenges will make or break your career. So, it’s essential that you decide carefully and weigh your choices well.
Indeed, when deciding about career and personal development, there is no one-size-fits-all set of tips. However, the following must-do’s can help you clear your mind and maintain the perspective that will guide you through the crucial decision-making process.
1. Start by asking yourself the why and the what
Although obvious, knowing why you have to make a tough career choice in the first place will help remind yourself of your priorities. Why did you end up having to make a choice? Did you put yourself in that position because you wanted to achieve something great(er)? Will making this choice take you a step closer to your career goals? Ultimately, you need to understand why do you need to make a choice.
A lot of things can overwhelm and distract you from the real reason why you want to make that career move. This is why you should take a step back and remind yourself of the reason why you’re at this point in your career.
Furthermore, if you’re having a hard time pursuing a choice, ask yourself, what’s the worst that could happen? The primary reason why a lot of people hesitate to make a change and take a step ahead is fear.
True enough, every challenging choice comes with a risk. They wouldn’t be so much of a challenge if they didn’t, right? The difference lies in how risky that risk is. If the worst outcome won’t be so bad after all, then you might as well go ahead and take the leap.
2. Look at the big picture
When you’re finding it hard to justify your why and answer the what, try another trick: look at the bigger picture. What will be the grand and best result that may come out of the decision you’re about to make? Is it working with a company known for providing good benefits package? Would it mean working for a cause that you feel strongly about?
In the end, what matters is what you will gain out of the change. Whether it’s the promise of a bigger income or the possibility of building and strengthening your professional experience, it will help to focus on the benefits that you will enjoy.
3. Seek objective advice, but listen to your gut, too
It’s normal to second-guess yourself. It happens to the best of us. When you’re stuck at the point of indecision, consider seeking advice from people you trust and look up to. It could be a family member, a friend, or a previous mentor or manager. Tell them about your goals and your options. They can give you a fresh perspective, allowing you to see the situation from a different angle.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide, so don’t forget to listen to your gut. If something just doesn’t feel right, it probably is. You don’t want to be stuck in a situation that you didn’t whole-heartedly want to be. However, if something tells you that a particular choice will be good for you in one way or another, you might as well take a leap of faith.
Find these tips useful? We have more career advice, workplace tips, and job search tips on our blog. If you’re looking for jobs in the Philippines or abroad, sign up now and start applying!
