In today’s fast-paced world, the uncertainty of the economic climate can leave many feeling angry, stressed, and demotivated—particularly when you’re job searching or navigating a career transition. These feelings are completely valid, yet it’s important to remind ourselves of a few key truths. Despite the challenges, we are ultimately in control of our careers and our futures. No one owes us a job, and as Steve Jobs famously said, “No one is coming to save you.” While this might sound harsh, it’s actually a call to action for those who feel stuck or lost.
The path to career empowerment and success starts with a clear vision—your dreams—and then moves into action. Dreams without action can only take you so far. It’s time to take responsibility for your career journey and step into your power.
Start With Clarity: What’s Your Career ‘Why’?
The first step in becoming empowered in your career is to gain clarity. Take a moment to reflect on your career journey thus far and ask yourself:
- What’s your BIG career ‘Why’?
- What dreams do you have for your work life?
- What would an ideal career look like for you?
When you have clarity around your career vision and what truly matters to you, it becomes much easier to communicate your goals and needs. More importantly, it enables others to help you. The truth is, most people are willing to support your ambitions—if you approach them with respect, clarity, and a realistic understanding of what help you need.
Unfortunately, many people don’t get to this point. According to recent studies, over 70% of the Australian workforce is unhappy in their current jobs. This stems from two main reasons:
- They don’t know what they want. They haven’t spent enough time dreaming or reflecting on what they truly desire in their career.
- They don’t take action. Even if they know what they want, they often don’t take the necessary steps to move forward. They hesitate to ask for help, fearing rejection or failure, and as a result, stay stuck.
The Power of Action: The Importance of Being Uncomfortable
The gap between dreaming and doing is often where people get stuck. While dreaming is an important part of the process, it’s the willingness to take action that truly empowers you. Too many people shy away from discomfort or avoid reaching out for help because they fear failure. They want everything to be perfect before they make a move.
However, progress doesn’t happen without risk. You’ll need to get comfortable with discomfort. Taking small risks, like reaching out for support or starting that conversation, is what moves you closer to your career goals.
Remember, failure is part of the journey. As Steve Jobs put it, “You’ve got to act. You’ve got to be willing to fail. You’ve got to be willing to crash and burn.” It’s this mindset that separates the doers from the dreamers—the ones who turn their visions into reality from those who just wish for change without ever acting on it.
Investing in Yourself: The Secret to Career Success
If you feel lost, demotivated, or frustrated with your career or job search, ask yourself:
- Have I truly invested in myself and my dreams?
- Am I willing to give myself permission to work with purpose, joy, and fulfillment?
Many people make excuses, convincing themselves that their dream career is out of reach or not realistic for them. But the truth is, the playing field is much more level than you might think. Career satisfaction and success are within your grasp if you’re willing to take ownership of your journey and invest in yourself.
Taking Action: What’s Your Next Step?
If you’re ready to get serious about making your dreams a reality, start by reflecting on the following:
- What are your insights and dreams?
- What action steps can you take today to move closer to your ideal career?
As you reflect, consider how you can put your career dreams into action. A small step forward today will build momentum for the days and months ahead.
Final Thoughts: Own Your Career
Remember, it all begins and ends with you. You own your career—both the highlights and the low-lights. Your happiness and fulfillment at work are in your hands. By gaining clarity, building confidence, and committing to meaningful action, you can create the career and life you truly want.
If you’re ready to take the next step but feel unsure of where to start, I’d love to support you.
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Take Control Today
Now is the time to invest in yourself. Step into your power, embrace your dreams, and take action to create the career and life you deserve.
Article By Kelly Magowan
Career & Executive Coach | Coaching for Clarity, Confidence, Energy & Worth