Change: Uncomfortable and Exhilarating at the Same Time

Yesterday was the first day I rode my bike to work – with our office dog, Cola, on my back! You see, as an avid cyclist, I commute to work by bike from time to time. I like the idea of bike commuting for several reasons, not the least of which includes making time for fitness and perhaps sustainability. However, with a 35lb dog, I’ve found lots of excuses to not do so in a while. Driving my car to work is just so much easier.

I’m sure the same is true for many of you at work. I speak daily with supply chain candidates that are frustrated with their boss, their company, their job, their lack of ability to progress… However, taking the necessary steps to make a positive change are often superseded by the fear of the unknown, the comfort level of routine, or the perception of how difficult it will be to plan for your own success.

I’ve been talking about getting back to bike commuting for months. I researched a lot of options to do so with Cola. I trained Cola for several weeks to help her get used to the @K9 Sports Sack. We started with walks around the house, then down the street, then in the woods. We then got on the bike to do the same. It was a little uncomfortable each time, but also kept getting better.

This is no different than you making that professional change. You’ve may be telling some people how frustrated you are at work or how you’re concerned about the stability of your company. Well, finding a job takes preparation. Time to dust off your resume, do some networking, look for a recruiter that specializes in your niche to help you better understand your options and how to best position yourself. 

Making a change can be uncomfortable at first. My back may be a little sore today, so I’ll do some extra stretching and may need to find a few new exercises to strengthen that area that I don’t use as often. Fortunately for you, there are also a ton of resources to help you strengthen your own weakness and better position you for that next step.

With all of your preparation, I hope your interview and ultimately first day on the new job is as much a success as my and Cola’s first big day riding to work on the bike. We’ve committed to commuting together at least 50 days this year. What’s your goal?