Introduction:
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, uncertainty has become a constant companion, leading many veterinary professionals to feel nervous and hesitant about making significant life choices. The pandemic magnified pre-existing concerns and fears, making them impossible to ignore. Fear has emerged as a significant theme among vets facing career decisions, particularly the fear of change and the fear of making the wrong choice. In this blog post, we delve into the influence of fear on career decisions and how embracing one's core values can empower veterinary professionals to make informed and fulfilling choices.
The Voice of Your Values:
When working with vets to uncover their career aspirations, one of the most critical factors we focus on is their core values. These values act as a guiding compass, motivating individuals to invest their time and energy in what truly matters. However, fear has the power to overshadow the voice of these values, making it challenging to make clear and confident decisions.
Distinguishing Fear from Your Values:
The voice of fear is loud, persistent, and threatening. It may reflect the opinions of authority figures from our past, leading to hasty decisions and a closed mindset. On the other hand, the voice of your values is calm, loving, and guiding. It points you towards the right direction, without providing a definitive answer, allowing you to make decisions aligned with what truly matters to you.
Understanding Fear in Career Transitions:
When considering a job change, fear of failure often looms large. The nagging question, "What if it all goes wrong?" fuels our apprehensions. This fear is rooted in a deeper fear of shame – the disappointment and belief that we are not good enough when faced with failure. Consequently, we might prioritise others' opinions over our own confidence and capabilities, choosing to stay in a comfortable yet unfulfilling job.
The Solution: Embracing Your Values
Identify Your Core Values: Begin by reflecting on your core values, the principles and beliefs that matter most to you. Work-life balance, personal growth, making a positive impact, financial security, autonomy, or creativity could be among them. Make a list of your top values.
Clarify Career Priorities: Evaluate which values are most relevant to your career and job satisfaction. Consider how your current job aligns with these values and assess its impact on your long-term aspirations.
Assess Your Current Job: Honestly assess your current job in light of your core values. Recognise aspects that might cause dissatisfaction or stress.
Explore Potential Opportunities: If contemplating a job change, research and identify potential opportunities that align with your core values. Look into job descriptions, practice cultures, and policies to find the right fit.
Prioritise Your Values: Rank your values based on their importance to you. This exercise helps resolve conflicts when values seem to pull you in different directions.
Conclusion:
In the post-COVID world, fear has become an ever-present companion in making career decisions. Veterinary professionals must recognise the impact of fear on their choices and work to embrace their core values. By doing so, they can navigate uncertainty with confidence and clarity, making decisions that align with their passions, goals, and personal growth. Embracing one's values empowers veterinary professionals to overcome limitations, seize new opportunities, and embark on a fulfilling and purpose-driven career journey. Remember, the voice of fear may be loud, but the voice of your values is your true guide through life's important decisions.
Unlock your fullest potential by harnessing the power of your core values as a guiding compass. Request to speak to one of our experienced Career Advisors to embark on a journey of self-discovery and career growth. Let your values lead the way towards a fulfilling and purpose-driven career path. Don't wait, take the first step today!
Email: info@simplyveterinary.co.uk