Stuck in "Analysis Paralysis" in your current position? Here are 6 ways to break free and start your job search!
We all know people who are stuck in a going-nowhere job, worrying about their future. They may work in an industry with rumors of downsizing running rampant throughout the office (or on Zoom calls!). Some people may simply dislike their jobs but stay in that job for reasons of their own, even if they no longer feel challenged and are miserable. Unfortunately, these people aren’t actively engaged in efforts to find a new position. They are floundering, flopping around like a fish in a pond with the water quickly evaporating in the hot sun! Stymied and frozen in time, these sad souls are suffering from analysis paralysis.
Analysis paralysis occurs when an individual is unable to move forward with a decision due to constant overanalyzing of data or overthinking the problem. It’s a vicious mental cycle. These persons continually search for a solution, rolling over and over again in their heads all the possible scenarios. These scenarios may be real or simply perceived based on the data they have at hand. What’s produced is a cruel static mindset of repeated rumination complete with plenty of “what ifs” and “but thens.”
It’s so sad to witness a friend or colleague suffer from this self-imposed prison. Professional advancement, development along with personal growth halted. It’s sadder still to personally know the specifics of their work situation and observe the effects it has on their personal lives. Depression, anxiety, and lethargy can result from remaining in a position when deep down they know they should move on.
Analysis paralysis can be a procrastination trick used to guard against failure. The longer the decision-making process takes while reviewing all the options, the longer the decision is prolonged (protecting the person from the failure of making the wrong decision). Humans can only handle so much data or choices! Once a person’s data threshold is reached, their brain cannot continue to properly process it. This produces a paralyzing effect on the decision-making process. Options and choices are what we crave, but not too many options or choices.
Being set free from analysis paralysis when contemplating a job change is a process. It is a conscious decision to be set free. The catalyst to start forward movement is up to the individual. It could be an epic revelation regarding the job or simply tiring of the misery. The Nike saying “just do it” is very apropos. Don’t overthink it, just take that first step. It’s a well-known fact that job hunting is a numbers game. Remember that putting a toe in the water doesn’t mean you will necessarily fall in and drown! It’s just the first baby step.
The old saying that “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” is very pertinent when it comes to a job search in the world of COVID-19. It’s always preferable to have a job while looking for a job. There are millions of Americans without jobs and competition for positions is stiff. The job hunt must continue because there are many organizations who are hiring! Below are a few things to assist in maintaining your decision to move forward from your analysis paralysis:
Congratulate yourself on your decision to move forward by taking the first steps. This act in itself is a decision. You are no longer paralyzed.
What do you want? Really think about your dream position. What industries will you consider? Would you prefer to remain in the industry you currently work in? Do you want to start your own business?
Make a list of next steps. Is your resume ready? Have you updated your LinkedIn profile? Are there local networking events you can attend online? Have you made a list of people you can network with regarding your job hunt? Start now; call someone!
Set time limits and try to stick to them. In order to keep from being overwhelmed, set aside a fixed amount of time each day for certain job hunt related tasks. Determine how much time will be allotted for job boards, resume writing, and LinkedIn networking efforts. How many network calls will be made per day?
Stay positive and be mindful. Looking for a new position is not easy. It’s scary, humbling, hard work. Don’t allow the difficult days to throw you back into your pattern of overthinking your decision to move on. Be mindful of what you are doing each day, applauding your decision to move forward. Recognize that it’s a long process. Consider in advance how you will handle a “bad” day. Try to stay on schedule to give yourself a sense of control and to ward off those ruminating thoughts.
Consider hiring a job interview coach -- especially if it’s been years since you’ve had a job interview! An interview coach will properly prepare you to be at your competitive best, setting yourself apart from all the rest of those interviewing.
Living in the trap of analysis paralysis regarding a job change is a sad, exhausting situation. At times, we all deal with analysis paralysis, rationalizing our lack of decision making with excuses and fears for why we can’t make a job move. Luckily, most of us snap out of it and move onto making great positive job changes, wishing we had made the change years ago! You can too.
As a job interview coach with over 30 years of experience, I offer a free 30 minute coaching consultation. I’d be happy to serve you!