Leaning into Discomfort

It was a cold January afternoon with wind chills hovering just above zero.  The decision to run or not to run was replaying in my head.  Brave the conditions or stay inside and miss out on an exercise opportunity?  I finally decided to give it a go knowing I could always turn back at any point.  Heading outside wearing multiple layers from head to toe, the blustery wind hit my face reminding me that this was in fact January in Northeast Ohio.  I kept going, and a funny thing happened at the turnaround.  With the wind on my back, I found my footing, no longer felt cold, and was completely energized.  

Leaning into the discomfort of braving the cold is an apt metaphor for job seekers.  Deciding when and how and how to start a job search can be daunting and filled with stutter steps that might incline you to not start the process at all.  When you persevere and gain some momentum, you face new challenges, such as crafting a standout resume or preparing for a job interview.  Meeting these challenges head on - while often scary - will add skills to your toolkit and will build your confidence.  Over time, you will feel the wind on your back as you clarify your career goals and sharpen your interviewing skills.

Remember your job search is a journey, with some days being easier than others.  Most importantly, keep in mind that you do not have to go it alone.  Reach out to your professional and personal network for advice and for reassurance.  Tap the expertise of a career coach for added layers of support.  

So, the next time you find yourself questioning whether you are ready to pursue that promotion or if it is the right time to enter the job market, lean into that discomfort and see where it takes you.  You will be so glad that you did!