For most people, jumping into the unknown goes against everything we believe in and can be absolutely terrifying. Moving away from our comfort zone, away from what we know and away from what feels best, simply contradicts our human nature. BUT it is these opportunities in our life, these defining moments and decisions that can be the most rewarding in the long run.
10 months ago, I was presented with an opportunity, which to be perfectly honest, I knew nothing about what I was getting myself into. There I was, a sales consultant at a Bankwest store in Bondi Junction with a degree in Exercise and Health Science, a background of running an indoor sports centre and odd-jobs in retail, being presented with a potential opportunity of working as a recruitment consultant for product professionals in the financial services industry. I was so unsure of myself and what this would mean. I was comfortable, and I had a steady path laid out for me to move into management in a role that I was good at; but was it challenging me? Was I working to my potential? No… but I was comfortable, which made me feel safe.
Fast forward 2 weeks, I was sitting in an interview room with my now Managing Director, Victoria Butt and the whole team at Parity and before I knew it, I was putting pen to paper to start a role which I definitely was not prepared for – but wow, was I really excited about it!
Looking back now, I am so glad I had taken that step, which went against everything I was taught about keeping myself in the safe lane. I am now in a position where I can help other people realise their dreams and further their careers to not only develop themselves but also set themselves up for success – whether that be looking after their family and loved ones, being in a position where they are able to live a lifestyle of their choice or simply be in a job they love and creating and maintaining products which are going to better the lives of consumers.
Just like any new journey, there is the steep learning curve and I am definitely still finding myself learning and developing every day. The moment I knew this role was for me was when I was able to complete my first job and help someone realise a career changing moment for themselves – I was jumping out of my skin with excitement and the simple heartfelt thank you I received made me realise this is something which will give me a lot of satisfaction in the long term whilst also continuing to challenge and develop not only my skills but the nature of who I am as a person.
The best advice I can give to someone who is contemplating their next career move, is to simply just “do it”. It may take you out of your comfort zone, along with all of the unexpected and sometimes scary moments where you aren’t in complete control, but these are the moments where by seizing them with both hands, will be the ones you won’t regret. When we are older, the one thing you want to be able to do is to say “I did that” or “I tried that”. Don’t be that person who is left thinking “well if I just chose to do/try that, how things could have been different”, because that will leave you with the empty feeling of regret.
So, my advice to you is take the leap. Don’t shy away when opportunity comes knocking on your door!
If you think I can be of assistance in finding you a new role and opportunity, please feel free to give me a call for a confidential discussion on +61 410 001 635.