Navigating Career Change
Ref: 308
Date: Fri 03 Jan 2025, 13:14
"Are You Sure That’s a Good Idea?" When you start talking about changing careers, you quickly learn that not everyone will cheer you on.
In fact, some people might unintentionally (or intentionally) try to hold you back.
It’s not always out of malice. Often, it’s fear, misunderstanding, or their own insecurities coming through. But the barriers they raise can feel heavy.
Here are some of the things you might hear - and what they really tell you about the person saying them:
💬 “What if it doesn’t work out?”
👉 Translation: I’m afraid of failure, so I think you should be too.
💬 “Isn’t it the wrong time to leave?”
👉 Translation: The current situation benefits me, and I don’t want it to change.
💬 “This is just a phase. You’ll change your mind.”
👉 Translation: I’m dismissing your feelings because I don’t understand them or I don't care.
💬 “Aren’t you worried about starting over?”
👉 Translation: I wouldn’t take that risk, so neither should you.
💬 “Don’t you feel guilty leaving?”
👉 Translation: I think your loyalty to others means more than your feelings.
💬 “You’re just running away from your problems.”
👉 Translation: I think leaving means giving up, rather than moving forward.
💬“Work is supposed to hard!”
👉 Translation: That's been my experience and I'm jealous that you're braver than me.
People’s doubts say more about them than about you. Their words may be rooted in fear of change, their own experiences, or even jealousy.
But here’s what matters: It’s your life. Your career. Your choice.
When you encounter these barriers, remind yourself why you want the change. Visualise the life you’re working toward. Surround yourself with people who support and uplift you.