People inherently feel more comfortable when something is familiar, including when it comes to their careers. The idea of taking a risk can be terrifying, so many professionals decide, consciously or otherwise, to stick with what they know.
However, by remaining risk-averse, a person can easily stymy their progress or miss out on an opportunity. Change can only occur if there is a catalyst, and relying on external forces to be the source could lead to long-term stagnation.
Conversely, trying something new can pay off. By taking a risk, you could be opening yourself up to big rewards. Plus, the situation may appear to be scarier than it actually is. In many cases, the drawback that you fear isn’t that likely to occur, so the thing that is holding you back isn’t even a realistic outcome.
When people shy away from change, it’s usually out of fear. They may worry that the results would be devastating, so they choose to stick with the familiar instead.
In all reality, the risk associated with many options isn’t as bad as it seems. The worst-case scenario possibly won’t derail your life significantly, and you may be allowing your fear to convince you that it is harsher than it would be if you went for it.
If you are considering doing something significant, like changing careers or looking for a new job, ask yourself, “What’s the worst that could happen?” Then, examine that scenario carefully but through a realistic lens. Typically, even the worst outcome is entirely livable. Once you realize that, it’s easier to set the fear aside and move forward.
Most people regret the things they didn’t know, not the risks they took. Reflect on how you’d feel if you didn’t take the risk. For example, if you are contemplating a career change, think about what it would be like if you stuck with your current one for the next five years. Would you be satisfied with your job and happy about your decision? Would you wonder whether it could be better if you had made the change instead?
Usually, professionals consider taking a risk because they aren’t thrilled with where they are today. If that is the case, not doing it means staying where you are, and that thought might be enough to make the risk worthwhile.
Change is inevitably risky. But, by moving forward, you are opening yourself up to new opportunities. A new job could be more satisfying and could allow you to take your career to new heights. Acquiring new skills could help you advance or move down a path that is a better match. When you start moving forward, you could expand your network, meet a mentor, or interact with someone who shines a light on possibilities you wouldn’t have imagined otherwise.
Ultimately, you can’t predict what doors may open if you decide to take a risk. However, you can be fairly certain that, if you don’t, things aren’t likely to change any time soon, and that could make the idea of change seem like the better option.
If you would like to learn more about taking a career risk, the team at TRC Staffing Services can help. Contact us with your questions today and see how our expertise can benefit you.