Lucky You! Signs You are Ready for a Change

Disappointments as Guideposts “Thank God I got fired.” That’s what Lisa Kudrow told a group of graduates in a commencement speech, recalling how losing one job led to her most famous role as Phoebe Buffay on the TV show Friends.  No one likes being put in an uncomfortable situation, especially when it relates to our careers.  But as Lisa Kudrow points out, her disappointments “were like guideposts that kept me on my path.”

It’s pretty normal to gravitate to comfortable and safe situations and reassure ourselves we are headed in the right direction with stability.But the absence of pain does not always mean we are aligned with our passions and callings. Sometimes discomfort is a signal that it is time to do something different or new.  Discomfort may be trying to get our attention with clues pointing towards personal development, renewed energy, and deeper fulfillment.

Restlessness and boredom at work are common data points that your job may no longer be a fit for you.  Burnout might signal that your responsibilities are misaligned with your strengths.  If the grass looks greener for everyone but you, this might be your own consciousness expressing a desire to grow. Instead of seeing these signs as red flags, consider them green lights. What’s the opportunity here?  Here are a few questions to ask yourself:

• Am I choosing stability — or avoiding growth? Sometimes playing it safe is wise.  Sometimes it’s fear masked as comfort.

• What would a detour look like? What if I adopted an “extra-curricular” project, worked on skill building, explored a side hustle? Trying something new can open our eyes and. minds to bigger changes.

• Is it time to climb to a new level? Am I ready to step up to new responsibility, stretch in my role, increase my scope? What would the next level mean for me?

• What if I choose a road less traveled? Should I follow that urge that keeps poking me?  Why not?

There are also signs that you are headed in the right direction. If moving out of the safe harbor makes you feel energized, scares you in an exciting way, or inspires you by its challenge, chances are you are ready to take a new journey. You can step forward by outlining the things that intimidate you and map them to what they may actually be offering to teach you. Talk to people who have made similar shifts, tap into your community of professional friends for validation, perspective and encouragement.  The journey is much easier when we compare notes with other travelers!

Get started before you are totally ready. Clarity comes with action. Small steps lead to more signs and clues about what to do next. And, direction will come from decision.

Making changes in your career and life means feeling discomfort and having the courage to move beyond it. 

You choose. And in doing so, you create your own luck! 🍀