Taking control of your career requires a clear sense of direction and purpose, aligning your goals and values with your professional aspirations. However, it’s not uncommon to find yourself drifting aimlessly, unaware that you’re not truly in control of your career. 

In this section, we will explore some key indicators that your career may be lacking the control it needs. Recognizing these signs is the first step toward reclaiming your career path and regaining a sense of purpose.

Lack of Clarity

A clear lack of goals and aspirations is a sure sign that your career is not under your control. Without well-defined objectives, you’ll find yourself without direction or progress, akin to a ship lost at sea. 

It’s important to understand that many individuals experience confusion when it comes to career goals, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you find yourself in this situation. You can regain control by engaging in self-reflection, defining your values, assessing your skills, conducting research, and even reaching out for informational interviews.

If you’re still struggling to define your career goals, seeking the assistance of a career coach could be highly beneficial. A reputable career coach can help you gain clarity and discover your true potential, guiding you through the process of goal setting and action planning.

Stuck In The Comfort Zone

I listed the comfort zone as one of three major challenges you’ll need to overcome in your career and for good reasons. The comfort reason is a goal stealer, a dream destroyer, and a potent ‘kryptonite’ that can stop your career progression in its part.

The comfort zone is familiar and ‘comfortable’. It provides you with a sense of security and ease. There is little to no motivation to move on to the next level though deep down, you know you should make the effort to progress. But you don’t want to jeopardize the safe bubble you find yourself in.

True career growth necessitates challenging yourself and confronting fears—specifically, the fear of failure and the fear of change. If you find yourself stuck in the comfort zone, the first step is acknowledging the situation and recognizing the potential impact on your career goals and aspirations. 

Seek out challenges you’ve been avoiding and face them head on. Stepping outside of familiar territory can be uncomfortable, but it’s essential for personal and professional growth. Start by identifying areas where you can improve your knowledge and skillset. Take proactive steps to acquire new skills, expand your expertise, and embrace new opportunities.

Lack of Skill Development:

A crucial aspect of taking control of your career is actively investing time and effort into learning new skills and expanding your knowledge. As I explained earlier, the job market is constantly evolving. It’s ever changing and you need continuous learning to stay relevant and competitive.

To be in control of your career, it is essential to acknowledge the ever-evolving nature of the job market. Simply put, if you are not actively engaged in improving your skills, you are not in control. The skills that were once in high demand may become obsolete, and new skills may emerge as prerequisites for success. To maintain relevance and seize opportunities, you must commit to ongoing skill development.

If you have not been prioritizing the improvement of your skills, now is the perfect time to start. There are various avenues available for skill development, ranging from self-learning to workshops, professional courses, and mentoring. Take initiative and explore these options to enhance your capabilities and broaden your expertise.

Absence of Networking:

Lack of a professional network is a serious sign that you are not in control of your career. Building a robust network is essential for accessing opportunities, gaining industry insights, receiving mentoring and guidance, fostering professional development, and fostering collaborations and partnerships.

A proactive approach is key to building a professional network. Leverage your existing contacts by reaching out to colleagues, friends, and family members who may have connections in your desired industry or field. Attend events and conferences related to your field, where you can engage in meaningful conversations and establish new connections. 

Join professional organizations and attend meetups to connect with like-minded professionals and expand your network. Your career coach can also help you with a contact or two. 

Ignoring Personal Values and Passions:

Aligning your career decisions and aspirations with your personal values is crucial for achieving a fulfilling and successful career. Failing to do so can lead to unhappiness and a sense of unfulfillment.

It is important not to compromise your values for the sake of your career. Instead, allow your values to serve as guiding principles that lead you towards the career you desire. While living by your values may not always be easy, it is essential for creating a sense of purpose and satisfaction in your professional life.

Conclusion

Taking control of your career is a vital step towards achieving professional success and personal fulfillment. By recognizing the signs that indicate a lack of control, you can begin to make intentional choices and take proactive steps to shape your career path. Whether it’s clarifying your goals, seeking new challenges, investing in skill development, building a network, or aligning your career choices with your values, the journey towards a fulfilling career begins with taking charge of your own destiny. See de