Embracing Delay: How to Overcome Setbacks and Turn Inaction into Action for Career and Life Success!

Delay is inevitable, but how we handle it determines our path to success. Whether it's an unexpected disruption or a self-imposed pause, delays have the power to weaken the confidence we've worked so hard to build. In my own journey, I recently faced this reality while preparing for the launch of my book, It Is Always Personal—an unexpected illness delayed my plans. It’s a feeling we all know too well.

In the beginning, delays can feel like the stamp of failure on our efforts. We start questioning ourselves, doubting the goals we’ve set, and wondering if we’ll ever get back on track. But not all delays are the same. If we take a moment to identify the type of delay we’re experiencing, we can respond effectively and keep moving forward.

The Different Types of Delay:

1. Unexpected Delay
2. Forced and Necessary Delay
3. Delay from Distraction and Inaction

Are You Suffering from Delay Due to Inaction?

If you’ve set ambitious goals for your career or personal life but feel stuck, ask yourself: Have I been delaying progress by waiting for the right time? The truth is, waiting for perfection or the "ideal" moment is often just another form of procrastination. Willful inaction is a dangerous form of delay that holds many people back.

Start Now, Not Later

The biggest reason we don’t start today is because we’re unsure of where to begin. We want our steps to be perfectly ordered and sequential, but the reality is that action creates clarity. Start with one thing you know you can do right now. As you move forward, the steps will reveal themselves, and with each action, you’ll gain the confidence to do more.

By the time January 1st rolls around, you’ll already be well on your way—far ahead of those still waiting for the magic of the New Year.

Re-frame Your Delay

Just as I’ve had to re-plan and reset the timeline for my book launch, if you’re facing a delay in your journey—especially one due to inaction—now is the time to set a new date. But unlike the arbitrary future date you may have in mind, choose to start sooner, not later. Time is precious, and we can’t afford to waste it. After all, they say time is the new currency, and can we really afford to throw it away?

Conclusion: Embrace, Reset, and Act

Delays are part of life, but we can always turn them into opportunities. Whether it’s an unexpected disruption or a pause born from inaction, take control of your timeline, reset your plan, and begin moving forward again. Your goals and dreams deserve the effort. And the sooner you start, the sooner you’ll see results.

Riah Creisson

International People Development Consultant

The Job Search Maverick

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