People can experience guilt and shame about a variety of issues which unconsciously hold them back. This “paralysis” can even occur for individuals looking for a new job or making a career change.
We know that whatever holds us back can be uncovered and overcome. At Lansky Career Consultants, we see this every day, and once we know what the issue is, we can help you find the support you need to work on your issue and move on to achieve your job or career objectives.
Here are 2 examples:
- Linda had been working with us for a few months when she had to confront the reality that her progress was blocked. She’d done all the “right” things to evaluate the status of her current career and had defined a new career direction. However, she just couldn’t move ahead with the practical steps involved in finding a new position.
When we addressed this with her, she finally told us about her “secret.” Her husband had been unfaithful for years and she was constantly anxious about him leaving her. This anticipation coupled with the shame she felt over her failing marriage had paralyzed her. Her job seemed to be the only secure thing in her life and although she didn’t like it very much, she was afraid to take the risk of leaving it. - Marc had a similar issue, although it looked different on the surface. He was reluctant to change jobs even though he was qualified for a position with a much higher salary. Eventually, he shared with us that he is gay and that his current job is comfortable and non-discriminatory. In fact, this is the first time in his life that he’s worked in such an accepting environment. Previous bosses had treated him poorly and he was afraid to leave the one place where he was treated well.
Like Linda, Marc had an issue that was holding him back, blocking him from pursuing his dreams.
Hidden issues are as varied as anyone can imagine. They can range from addictions such as alcoholism and gambling, to childhood and family concerns, to sexual orientation or bad habits. People who believe they don’t deserve a rich personal life and a successful career are likely to have difficulty reaching their goals. Sometimes a client’s family did not want them to succeed. Once they can identify this and deal with it, they can move ahead, sometimes quite energetically.
With Linda and Marc, once their hidden concerns were recognized, we found ways for each of them to discuss and overcome those obstacles to move forward.
If you’re looking for a career or job change yet find yourself blocked in ways you don’t yet understand, know that we are available to help you. You deserve success.
