The Thrill and Fear of Career Moves in Commodities – How to Know When It’s Time to Jump ??

Have you ever stared at an offer letter for a new role, heart racing, wondering: “Am I about to make the best decision of my career—or the worst?”. Have you ever decided to leave a comfortable position to take some time off because it was too difficult to stay?

In commodities trading, career moves often feel like high-stakes bets. The upside can be incredible—new markets, bigger bonuses, or a strategic leap forward. But the risks are real—leaving a good team, stepping into uncertainty, or making a move that doesn’t pay off.

I’ve had that moment. And I know many of you have too.

But how do you know when it’s time to jump—and when to hold your ground?

After speaking with countless professionals in commodities trading, I’ve noticed the most successful career moves often follow a pattern.

Here’s what I’ve learned:

1. Listen to the Excitement… But Question the Fear

Let’s be honest—fear often masks opportunity.

When the thought of a new role excites you, but also terrifies you, it’s usually a sign that you’re on the edge of growth.

The fear is normal. It’s your brain protecting you from the unknown.

But the excitement is the signal—that’s the part to listen to.

Ask yourself:

? Am I scared because it’s wrong?

? Or am I scared because it’s new—and I might actually grow?

Tip:

If you talk about the opportunity non-stop to friends and family, it’s probably the right move.

2. Get Out of Your Own Head – Talk to the Right People

Big moves require perspective.

We often overthink alone, playing the same pros-and-cons list on a loop in our minds.

But the best decisions happen when you involve others—especially those who know the industry and understand YOU.

Talk to:

? A mentor who’s seen the long game.

? A peer who recently made a move.

? A recruiter who can offer a market reality check (I’m always happy to chat if you need this).

? Or… a coach (more on that below).

Their questions will unlock things you hadn’t even considered.

3. Visualise the Future – Where Will This Move Take You?

During Covid, I joined a coaching session led by Yasmina Rauber , an Executive Coach specialising in leadership transformation.

One exercise she led us through changed how I approach every career decision.

She asked us to:

Close your eyes and picture your future.

What do you see in 3 years? Where are you working? Who’s around you? How does it feel?

Then she asked us to write it down—or even draw it.

It was surprisingly powerful. For the first time, I wasn’t weighing salary or job titles—I was seeing the life I wanted.

That visualisation exercise still guides some of my choices today.

Try it. Right now.

Take 5 minutes.

Picture your future career. Write or sketch it.

You might be surprised at what becomes clear.

Final Thought – Your Career is the Sum of Your Leaps

Every successful person in commodities has made at least one scary jump.

Not every move is perfect.

But staying still out of fear is often the bigger risk.

So:

? Trust the excitement.

? Talk it out.

? Visualise your future—it works.

And if you’re at that crossroads right now, reach out—whether it’s to me, a mentor or to a coach.

These conversations can unlock more than you think.

Have you ever made a career move that scared you—but changed your life?

I’d love to hear your story.

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