The Job Search Phenomenon

An object at rest stays at rest unless acted upon by an outside force. This means that there is a natural tendency of objects to just keep on doing what they're doing. All objects resist changes in their state of motion. Okay this is a non-human way to describe the phenomenon we see with some professionals when it comes to not making a job change that could benefit them. The benefit I refer to could be: 

Provide career growth

Provide an opportunity to learn new things

Provide a better work/personal life balance

All of the above 

Professionals may remain stuck in the wrong positions, not living up to their potential and sacrificing professional fulfillment. The problem lies in basic human motives: we fear change, lack readiness, are unwilling to make sacrifices, sabotage ourselves.

Perhaps you've been with the company for a number of years so you have the emotional attachment; the guilt of what will they think about you, or leaving them in a bad situation should you leave.

Perhaps your social network is centered within your co-workers. If you leave the company, you are leaving your friends.

Maybe you feel a strong loyalty to your employer. After all, they were the company that gave you your first break into the industry.

Or maybe the job opportunity involves a relocation. Upsetting the household with a move is unsettling to you.

At the end of the day, only one person is responsible for your career: you. Just as it’s unwise to impulsively leave a job for the wrong reasons, don’t allow fear of the unfamiliar to hold you back from accepting a new one. As for the move, look at it as a temporary inconvenience. One that after six months will likely be ancient history. Moving your household is never easy, but if it is the right opportunity for you and your family, this should not prevent you from following through on a good opportunity.

The bottom line is that changing jobs always carries some degree of risk. But, if you've thoroughly analyzed the situation and your gut is telling you to make a move, trust your intuition. At some point you need to stop second-guessing yourself and embrace the new opportunity. 

Scot Dickerson, CPC
President Capstone Search