Moving Beyond 'Okay': Embracing a New Narrative to Elevate Your Career

I often remind people, when someone says they are "okay," it seldom means they are "okay." We rarely question this response and accept it as normal. Yet, accepting the perpetual state of "okay" as the norm, especially in our careers, seems unacceptable when we devote significant time and energy to our work.

Inevitably, many of us will find ourselves feeling stuck at some point in our careers. We may feel trapped in an industry, a job, or within a company, or perhaps we feel unsatisfied without knowing why. Often, we recognize the need for a change but find ourselves unable to move past the realization. We endure less-than-ideal situations instead of proactively shifting towards something better.

We embrace narratives that hinder our progress and create personal barriers. Have you found yourself thinking or saying any of the following statements?

• "I have to stay here a bit longer. I do not want to look like a job hopper."
• "I need to be in my new role for X years before I can move on."
• "I need a break, but a lot of people depend on me."
• "I am the main provider in my family. What if I cannot find a new job?"
• "The grass is not always greener on the other side. The devil you know is better than the devil you don’t know. I may be jumping out of the pot into the frying pan."
• "It's not that bad. I just need to toughen up or be less sensitive.”
• “No one likes their job.”

The list can go on and on. These statements represent powerful obstacles we must overcome to facilitate change. They are steeped in fears—fear of change, the unknown, external perceptions, and the possibility of letting others or ourselves down.

So, how do we move past these limiting narratives to embrace change?

Recognizing these barriers is an important first step. Here are practical measures you can take to drive your transition from “okay” to optimal. Below the common concern, “I need a break, but a lot of people depend on me,” is used to illustrate the application of these methods.

1. Identify Your Core Values and Goals: Reflect deeply on what truly matters to you. Consider what aspects of your current job you find most fulfilling and what elements are lacking. Understanding your priorities can help reframe your perspective. Give yourself permission to make your well-being and satisfaction at work a top priority. After all, how you feel at work impacts other areas of your life. If your reflection reveals that you value helping others and time for personal rejuvenation, journaling your feelings can allow you to focus on what is most crucial for your well-being and career satisfaction at the moment.
2. Challenge and Change Your Self-Narrative: Evaluate the stories you tell yourself. Challenge each belief by asking yourself if it's truly based on fact or just a perception. Reflect on past successes where you've faced similar challenges or achieved goals you once thought unattainable. This reflection can empower you to break through the fear. Examine the belief that taking a break will negatively impact your team or others. Is this belief based on fact, or is it a perception shaped by high self-expectations? Consider instances where others have taken breaks (vacations, leaves of absences, sabbaticals) and their team adapted or even thrived.
3. Develop an Action Plan: With clear goals in mind, create actionable steps to move forward. Setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals can provide structure and momentum. Consider implementing accountability measures, like a partner or tool. If you find yourself hitting a wall, engaging a coach can help you gain clarity and direction. Planned Leave: Clearly recognize your need for balance and strategically schedule your leave. Determine the optimal time for your break, submit your request, and approach its planning as you would any major project. Inform your team in advance, delegate key tasks, and set up systems to ensure continued workflow in your absence. Immediate Leave: If you urgently need a break and cannot delay, prioritize your well-being without hesitation. Remember, prioritizing your well-being is necessary and acceptable, and taking steps to ensure your health should always be treated with understanding. Take the steps you can to inform your team as appropriate and schedule your leave.
4. Practice Self-Compassion and Intentionality: Make a conscious effort to treat yourself kindly during periods of stress or transition. Change is inherently challenging and filled with moments of doubt and introspection. Always embrace yourself with compassion and prioritize self-care. Stepping away from work, even for a necessary break, can seem daunting. However, prioritizing your well-being is not only reasonable but also beneficial to those around you. Remember your values and allow yourself grace during this time. Do something that brings you joy and celebrate yourself for overcoming your doubts.

Empower Your Transition

As you pursue personal and professional growth, remember the possibilities for your career and professional enjoyment are limitless. You deserve more than to be merely "okay" at work.

The power to reshape your narrative is within you. Embrace the opportunity to transform 'okay' into extraordinary, and watch as new, exhilarating paths unfold before you.

Start your shift today by identifying one small step you can take to begin your journey from “okay” to optimal. You deserve a career as fabulous as you.

Together, let's actively create a better present.

With warmth and dedication, championing the journey toward our greatest potential —

Your Boundless Path Partner