Much of our society views failure as just that: failure. But sometimes we learn more from not doing something correctly than by doing it right the first time. So I ask you to be okay with failure. Hold your fear of failure at bay. Let go of looking good, being right, and making the best decision. Don’t try to be perfect; nobody is and holding that expectation over your head can hold you back because it can prevent you from taking the necessary risks that career transition requires. Instead have courage.
Try new things. Think outside the box. When we remove the fear of failure, we are more willing to step out of our comfort zone, try new things, and take chances. So get comfortable with falling on your face, picking yourself up, and moving on.
Also remember that there is no right or wrong here; there is only the best way that works for you. There is no one size fits all formula for finding and attaining your dream job. Instead you have to work through the process on your own time frame. Some people dive in head first, some take their time. Regardless, it’s about your being at choice and attaining what you want in the timeframe you want it. Gabe was a recent graduate who was uncertain about his direction. He worked in a restaurant, something he just fell into; but this clearly didn’t use his skills. In one of our first coaching calls, he said, “Being honest with oneself is really important. You can’t be afraid to admit errors, weaknesses or mistakes.” Gabe evaluated his options and decided he liked being an entrepreneur. But did that mean he started his own restaurant? Not at all. Ultimately he and his father opened an art gallery.
Action step:
Think about a time in your life when you failed. What happened as a result? Did you get back up on your feet? What did you learn from that experience that you can carry forward and focus on, instead of focusing on the failure itself?
We hope this is helpful to you! The career coaches at Create Your Career Path.
