“I should have come here years ago.” Danielle said. “I know I’ve wanted to leave for the last 3 years. But I couldn’t figure out why. Now I understand that I really did not put in the time to do so.”
I just finished my mini-lecture on Career Counseling Connecticut’s process of “exploratory work” – how to find your next better job (or career). The process is anything but rash.
Indeed, most clients tell me they feel too scared to leave because they don’t want to do anything impulsive.
That’s not what I advocate. Instead, I provide a manageable, step by step process to identify the best “pilot” to try and then test out until the client is ready to jump.
Thoughts – alone – do not do anything. Most people experience these fleeting thoughts about quitting their jobs, yet few actually take the plunge. Why? Because making a successful career transition requires more than just a desire for change – it requires a process.
The Perils of Impulsivity
While a dramatic, spur-of-the-moment resignation might seem satisfying in the movies, real life demands a more strategic approach. Quitting a job without a plan can lead to financial instability, career derailment, and a whole lot of unnecessary stress. It’s like jumping out of a plane without a parachute; you might enjoy the initial freefall, but the landing is likely to be rough.
Enter the Career Counselor: Your Transition Strategist
This is where a career counselor comes in. Now the truth is that I am not a big fan of most career counselors. That’s a subject for a different essay but whenever I’ve interviewed potential career counselors I realize that most are not that good. Nonetheless – any career counselor who is half-way decent – is better than none.
Sort of like an athletic trainer who is decent. Working with one will be better than getting in shape alone.
Think of them as your career transition strategist, providing the structure, support, and guidance needed to navigate this crucial juncture in your professional life. Here’s how they can help:
- Clarifying Your Goals: A counselor helps you identify your values, interests, and skills, painting a clearer picture of what truly motivates you. This self-awareness is fundamental in finding a career path that aligns with your aspirations.
- Exploring Options: Feeling lost and unsure about your next move? A counselor can open your eyes to a world of possibilities, suggesting career paths you might not have considered and providing valuable labor market information.
- Building a Roadmap: From updating your resume and honing your interview skills to networking effectively and negotiating salaries, a counselor equips you with the tools and strategies needed for a successful job search.
- Accountability and Support: Change can be daunting. A career counselor acts as your cheerleader and confidante, providing encouragement, keeping you accountable, and helping you navigate the emotional rollercoaster of career transition.
Taking the First Step
If you’re trapped in a cycle of job dissatisfaction, remember this: you don’t have to go it alone. Reaching out to a career counselor is an investment in your future, providing the process and support you need to break free from the rut and embark on a fulfilling career journey. Don’t let those fleeting thoughts of quitting remain just thoughts. Take action, seek guidance, and create a plan for a happier, more rewarding professional life.