Let’s face it. At some point, you’re going to experience some career angst. Maybe you’re a young professional anxious for some direction, or stuck in an unfulfilling job where you feel trapped, or near the end of your career and unsure of what you’ll do when work is over.
Life doesn’t come with a road map and figuring out what comes next is tough. Just being ready to make a decision for change can be a tough go. It’s a path marked by discontentment, frustration and anxiety.
If that’s you, you’re not alone. I can promise you that every person you work with has wondered if they’re in the right job, the right marriage, the right state of mind. We all get down. We all feel isolated. It is a critical part of your journey, and how you navigate it defines your character.
Alcoholics Anonymous is known for using the Serenity Prayer: “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” You might be surprised to know that the solution to your angst is wrapped up in this beautiful little prayer.
The courage to change what you can
The first step in unraveling your career angst is figuring out if you are in circumstances that you can change. Is there a move available for you? Are you willing to take the risks necessary to get to the other side? These are big questions and you might need advice to figure it out. Don’t be afraid to seek help. It may be the hardest step you ever take, but going it alone is far more difficult.
Accepting the things you cannot change
If the answer to change is no, then the answer to acceptance has to be yes. If you can’t change your circumstances, your boss, your compensation or your possibilities, then you’ve got to accept your circumstances. Of course, that too is difficult work.
If you are stuck in career angst, remember these four things:
1. It’s normal. People don’t make career moves out of an abundance of contentment. Usually, there is something out there they want that they don’t currently have.
2. Try not to do anything stupid. Quitting your job without a plan or during a low point is a bad idea.
3. Get help. Talking to a trusted friend, mentor, life coach or therapist isn’t a sign of weakness. But going it alone out of fear of being honest with yourself is.
4. Have faith. Peace and contentment follow universal laws of thought, action and being. If you do your work, change what you can and accept what you cannot change, joy and peace will naturally grow as a result. ●
Daniel Flowers is the president & CEO of the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank. He is a member and former vice-chairman of Feeding America’s National Affiliate Council and is currently chairman of the Ohio Association of Foodbank’s board of directors. Under his leadership, the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank received Feeding America’s 2012 Food Bank of the Year award, the highest recognition achievable by food banks.
