What's holding you back from your next career move?

So, you've come to a stand-still in your career. You're okay with where you are, but you know that there are more opportunities within your reach. What's holding you back from taking the leap? A few culprits are often to blame. Here are three common barriers and how you can overcome them.

1. Make space for change

   Any positive change, including taking the next step in your career, requires you to make space in your life and in your schedule. There are two popular reasons working individuals don't allow themselves this space: because they feel selfish or because they don't feel that it's possible. After all, juggling family, work, chores, and other obligations takes a lot of time and energy. It's important to remember that you deserve to dedicate time to your personal goals and that you're allowed to ask for the support you need from family and friends to make it happen.

2. Don't let fear get in the way

   When it comes to tackling a new challenge, there is always the possibility that things won't work out, or at least will not go the way you planned. This fear of failure may cause you to self-sabotage and prevent you from achieving your goal. Make a mental list of the excuses and reasons you tell yourself are keeping you from pursuing a career move and identify the root cause. Are they real barriers, or are they rooted in self-doubt? Once you've done this, you can find a way to move forward.

3. Do your research

   Having the motivation to make your next career plan is key, but so is having a roadmap. Identifying opportunities to achieve that goal can be overwhelming—from making the decision to go back to school or pursue additional training, to figuring out the logistics of how to fit additional activities into your life. Do your research online. Talk to school advisors to learn more about the programs they offer. Do the math and find an affordable option for your education. Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to career planning.

In most cases, the only thing holding you back is yourself. Deciding to take the next step in your career is half the battle.

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