Imagine you've come to me for a career consultation. You feel stuck in a rut—whether because you're currently unemployed or dissatisfied with your current job. Together, we'll uncover the root of the problem, explore what motivates you, and chart a course toward meaningful change.

 

Identifying the Problem

 

The first step is to pinpoint the issue you’re facing. Most often, it falls into one of two scenarios:

1. You don’t have a job and need one urgently.
2. You have a job, but it no longer fulfills you.

 

Scenario 1: No Job

If you’re unemployed, your priority is to find job. Defining a clear direction is crucial—don’t scatter your efforts. A well-defined goal significantly increases your chances of success.

 

Scenario 2: Dissatisfied with Your Job

If you’re employed but unhappy, rushing to quit may not be the best solution. First, we’ll analyze your situation: is leaving your job truly necessary? Sometimes, the desire for change stems from other areas of your life, not just your career.

 

Understanding Your Motivation

 

Next, we’ll determine what drives you: are you trying to escape a problem, or are you moving toward an opportunity? Be honest with yourself.

Escaping a Problem?

You might be trying to avoid:

• unemployment,
• a toxic work environment,
• a difficult relationship with your boss, or
• anxiety about your company’s future.

Pursuing Opportunities?

Alternatively, you may feel drawn to:

• exciting projects,
• a career change,
• remote or freelance work,
• career growth, or
• ambitions to join a larger company.

Take time to identify what matters most to you.

 

Testing Your Intentions

 

Even if you feel ready to leave your current role, take a moment to pause. Ask yourself:

• Is this change truly necessary?
• Could a short break or a few days off help you regain perspective?

Sometimes, rest is all you need to recharge and rethink your decisions.

 

Uncovering Your True Desires

 

One of the key questions I ask my clients is:
“What do you want?”

The answer is often superficial, so I follow up with:
“Why?” 

This simple question pushes beyond surface-level responses and helps you discover what you truly want from your work.

 

Visualizing Your Ideal Workday

 

Take a moment to imagine your perfect workday:

• How does your day start?
• Where are you—at the office, working from home, or in another city?
• What tasks are you handling?

If dreaming feels hard, think about what you don’t want to do. This approach can clarify your priorities and preferences.

 

Signs of Burnout

 

If no idea sparks enthusiasm, you may be experiencing burnout. A lack of dreams, apathy, or exhaustion can signal it’s time for a career reset.

 

Julia Jolkin 👠👠

Top IT Recruiter & LinkedIn Expert

 

Feel free to contact me if you need:

• A review of your LinkedIn profile to understand how potential employers, partners, or clients perceive it. This will help you quickly find a job or confidently promote your services at any time. Sign up for the upcoming LinkedIn Makeover session.

• A career consultation to revise your career path and skills, especially if you haven’t been to an interview in a while and want to prepare thoroughly.