If you wake up most mornings in fear of going to work, it's time to do something about it. But what do you do if every time you think about changing jobs, your fears hold you back before you even start? Here are four questions that may answer your fears:
What do you really want?
You know you don't like your current job, but do you really want a new job? If you don't know, that's a real problem. That could be why you're worried that your next job might not be better — because you're not sure yet what "better" is. List everything you want in your next job and then prioritize each item. If you clearly know what you want, your excitement about what is possible will put your fears into perspective.
What's really holding you back?
Sometimes you blame everything for not liking a job. It's the economy, the wrong time of year to move the family, or you want to wait until you get another bonus. But those things are not the problem. The real problem may be that you fear that no one will hire you at your age, despite your incredible track record. Until you're honest with yourself about what you really fear, you'll stay in a job you don't like. Identify what really scares you and you're off to a good start.
What's your plan?
If you don't have a real plan to quit your job and get a new one, it's no wonder you're scared. Your plan should include a list of every obstacle you can think of and a plan of how you will handle each obstacle. If you are afraid of a job interview, you can attend a workshop to learn how to approach it like a professional. If you think you might need a pay cut to do work you love, your plan should include how you will adjust your lifestyle to your new income. Solid planning may be all you need to control your fears.
Who supports you?
If the people around you tell you that you'd be crazy to quit your regular job just because you don't like it, it's no wonder your fears have held you back until now. It's hard to be brave when everyone around you is warning you of all the dangers ahead. Get the support you need to overcome the fear of leaving a job you no longer want. Everyone needs support, including you. That could mean anything from reading a book about starting your career, building your confidence, attending a workshop on how to change jobs, or hiring a coach at short notice. Your fears may have stopped you until now, but the right kind of support will give you what you need to face and overcome your fears.
