When facing a career decision, it's easy to get caught up in the logistics: comparing salaries, evaluating job titles, or weighing the prestige of one company against another.
The dreaded pros and cons list can leave you feeling stuck, making it difficult to make up your mind.
Real-life career choice example
Imagine you're a senior consultant at a Big 4 firm with over three years of experience in transformation, operations, and strategy. Recently, you've been offered a position at a boutique firm.
While the new role isn't exactly what you had hoped for and the pay bump is modest, the leadership is exceptional, and the projects are truly interesting.
On the other hand, your current company boasts a more prominent name, and you're on the path to promotion.
This scenario highlights indecision in career choices stemming from conflicting desires. You value the stability and recognition of your current role but are also excited about the opportunity to join a smaller, more dynamic team with diverse projects.
Making the right career choice
So, what's the 'right' choice?
Often, when faced with a challenging career decision, it's because you're trying to predict the future with the limited information you have right now.
The answer isn't found in a simple pros and cons list but in your mindset.
Cultivating the right mindset for career decisions
Who do you need to be to make this career decision confidently?
You need to be curious and open-minded—the kind of person who focuses on what excites and energises them rather than fearing the "wrong" choice.
Ask yourself:
Which role makes you feel more alive?
Which path aligns more with the person you want to become?
This introspection isn't a brief process, but you can start right now. Reflect on what matters most to you in your career and life. Engage in conversations with mentors or peers who understand your values and can offer different perspectives.
Focusing on long-term career outcomes and personal growth
Concentrate on the results you're aiming for—not just in terms of career outcomes like promotions or salary increases, but also in personal growth and satisfaction.
Consider:
What would it feel like to wake up every day excited about the challenges ahead?
How would you approach your work differently if you were deeply connected to your team's mission?
The decision will feel 'right' if it empowers you. It may come with uncertainty, but that's where growth happens.
Embrace the journey of making informed career choices that align with your long-term goals and personal fulfilment.