If you’ve made it to the Director, VP, or Executive level in your career, then you know it’s natural to regret career decisions. Still, it’s important to remember that it’s never too late to make a change and pursue new opportunities.
Examples of career regrets may include:
- Lamenting over your chosen career path… Perhaps you’re in Finance or IT, but you secretly dream of Customer Success roles or even non-profit work.
- You’re in a situation where know you have a clear understanding of your job duties and responsibilities, and you feel like you have mastered your role… But, somehow, you ache for “more.”
- You are not given the opportunity to take on new projects or responsibilities, and you feel like you are doing the same things day in and day out…
- You are not given the opportunity to learn new skills or knowledge, and you feel like you are not growing professionally.
- You are not given the opportunity to lead or make important decisions, and you feel like you are not making a meaningful impact in your job.
If you’re experiencing career regret, consider how it impacts your finances, your mental health, and your relationships.
So, here are a few steps you can take, starting today, to try and address career regrets:
- Reflect on the source of your regret: What specifically are you regretting, and why? Understanding the root cause of your regret can help you figure out how to move forward.
- Set new goals: What do you want to achieve in your career now? Identify specific goals and create a plan for how to achieve them.
- Seek out new opportunities: Look for ways to gain new skills, experiences, and connections that will help you move towards your new career goals. This might include taking courses, meaningful networking, or seeking out new career opportunities.
- Be patient: Making a major career change can take time, so try to be patient and stay focused on your goals. Remember that setbacks are normal and can be an opportunity to learn and grow.
- Seek support: It can be helpful to talk to someone about your career regrets and your plans for moving forward. Consider reaching out to a career advisor or coach or talking to a trusted friend or family member.
By proactively addressing career regret through self-reflection, goal-setting, and seeking support and guidance, you can take control of your career path and create the fulfilling and successful future you desire.
P.S. It’s natural to have regrets about career decisions, so if you’re experiencing career regret, we have some open spots on our calendar to connect. Our team has helped thousands of professionals land their dream jobs in over 22 industries and we have a proven blueprint for career change success that can support you.
Here’s the link to grab your spot on our calendar for a complimentary one-on-one career breakthrough session.
