Embarking on a career shift can feel a lot like dating. You’re swiping through job boards, weighing your options, and trying to figure out which path will lead you to that perfect match. But just like in dating, sometimes the process of searching can be frustrating, especially when it feels like you’re stuck and can’t make a decision.
In her book How Not to Die Alone, Logan Ury talks about the types of daters who get in their own way. What if I told you those same types exist in the job-seeking world? Let’s dive into three types of job seekers who might be keeping themselves in limbo, and most importantly, how you can get unstuck and take that leap into your next career shift!
1. The Romanticiser: Falling for the dream job fantasy
You’ve probably heard it a million times—people raving about their dream job, whether it’s at some big-name company or as a travel-loving entrepreneur. It all sounds so exciting, and social media only fuels this fire. The Romanticizer is the person who gets swept up in these idealized career stories and starts imagining themselves living that picture-perfect life.
Maybe you’ve found yourself daydreaming about the perks of working for a top firm, or the freedom of being your own boss. And sure, those things are great, but here’s the catch: you’re seeing the highlight reel, not the full picture. Behind the scenes, every career path has its challenges—long hours, stress, setbacks. Romanticising can trick you into chasing a job that might not even align with your true values or skills.
Reflect if you really want a career shift
It’s time to get real. Before you jump headfirst into a career shift based on what looks cool online, take a closer look. Talk to people who are actually doing the job you’re interested in. Ask them about the tough parts. What are the daily challenges? What’s the work-life balance really like? This way, you’ll make a more informed choice and find a career path that’s genuinely right for you, not just the one that looks good in a filtered Instagram post.
2. The Maximiser: Stuck in analysis paralysis
Ever feel like you’ve been browsing job listings forever but can’t seem to pull the trigger on actually applying? You might be a Maximiser. Maximisers are the people who need to explore every single option before they decide. You’re constantly worried that if you settle on one job, you’ll miss out on something even better.
It’s the fear of “what if” that keeps you stuck. You’re scrolling through job listings, comparing salaries, benefits, and titles, but somehow you just can’t decide. And even when you finally choose something, you might still feel like you didn’t pick the absolute best one.
Make a call on your career shift
Here’s a tip from decision-making experts: after you’ve explored 37% of your options, it’s time to make a move. Why 37%? There’s actual science behind it! It’s called the 37% rule, and it’s a sweet spot where you’ve done enough research but don’t risk falling into endless overthinking. Once you hit that point, commit to a decision and stop second-guessing. No job will ever be 100% perfect, but if you’ve done your homework, you can make a confident choice and move forward.
3. The Hesitator: Waiting for the “Perfect Moment”
Do you keep telling yourself that you’ll make a career shift “when the time is right”? Maybe you feel like you need just one more course, one more certification, or a bit more experience before you’re ready to start applying for jobs. Sound familiar? If so, you might be a Hesitator.
Hesitators are perfectionists at heart, always waiting to feel 100% ready before making a move. But guess what? That perfect moment you’re waiting for might never come. The truth is no one feels totally ready for a career shift. You’ll always be learning on the job, and that’s okay!
Stop waiting for the career shift
Stop waiting and start applying. Even if you don’t feel like you’re perfectly prepared, taking action is what counts. The best way to get ready for the job you want is to actually go for it! Send out those applications, go to interviews, and put yourself out there. You might surprise yourself with how much you’ve already got to offer, even if you’re not “perfect” on paper.
Ready for Your Career Shift? Let’s Do This!
So, are you ready to move forward with your career shift? Whether you see yourself as a Romanticizer, Maximiser, or Hesitator, the key is recognizing which mindset might be holding you back and taking action to break free.
If you’ve been romanticizing certain jobs, start focusing on the reality behind them. If you’re a Maximiser stuck in research mode, give yourself a deadline and go with the best option you’ve found so far. And if you’re a Hesitator, stop waiting for perfection and take that leap—even if it feels a little scary.
The job market might feel overwhelming, but the good news is that by understanding your job-seeking style and addressing it head-on, you can make the career shift you’ve been dreaming of. So go ahead, hit that “apply” button, and embrace the next chapter of your professional journey.
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