Have you been thinking about making a career change — but find yourself hesitating?
Maybe your job no longer excites you. Maybe your values have shifted. Or maybe something inside you is simply whispering, “It’s time for something different.”
If you’re standing at a career crossroads, asking the right questions can help transform uncertainty into insight — and fear into focused action.
As a success coach who works with professionals and entrepreneurs navigating change, I often say: “Before you send out resumes or start that new venture, get clear with yourself first.”
Here are six powerful clarity questions I encourage every professional to ask before making a career move.
1. What am I truly moving away from — and why?
Change is often sparked by discomfort. But unless you understand the real source of that discomfort, you risk repeating the same patterns in a new place.
Ask yourself:
- Is it the job role or the leadership?
- Is it the lack of purpose, creativity, or growth?
- Is it misalignment with your values?
Naming what no longer fits is the first step toward creating what does.
2. What do I want to experience more of in my next chapter?
Beyond avoiding what’s wrong, think about what you want to move toward…
- More flexibility?
- More impact?
- More balance, creativity, or challenge?
Career fulfillment isn’t a one-size-fits-all formula. It’s about defining what success means for you — and then designing your next step around that vision.
3 What strengths and skills do I want to keep using?
Rather than starting over, build on what energizes you. Ask yourself:
- What am I really good at that I enjoy?
- Which parts of my current role do I want to carry forward?
- What would I love to expand or explore in new ways?
When your next role or business aligns with your core strengths, work starts to feel more like flow.
4 What are my non-negotiables — in lifestyle, values, and environment?
Clarity doesn’t begin with how — it’s firstly about the what.
- What are your boundaries around time, autonomy, culture, or compensation?
- What kind of leadership, collaboration, or mission do you want to be part of?
Getting clear on your non-negotiables helps you filter opportunities — and protects your well-being in the long run.
5 What fears or beliefs might be clouding my decision?
Career change is not just a strategic move — it’s an emotional one.
Sometimes it’s fear of failure. Sometimes it’s imposter syndrome. Sometimes it’s guilt around leaving “stability” behind.
Name the fear. Question the belief. Then ask:
Is this protecting me — or holding me back?
6 Who can support me through this transition?
You don’t have to figure it out alone. Whether it’s a mentor, a former colleague, or a professional coach — the right support system can give you perspective, accountability, and encouragement when things feel unclear or overwhelming.
Coaching, in particular, can help you cut through the noise and reconnect with your inner compass.
Final Thought: “Clarity Creates Confidence”
Your next career move doesn’t begin with an application.
It begins with honest reflection — and intentional action. The more clearly you understand your values, vision, and voice, the more aligned and successful your next chapter will be.
So, before you leap into your next chapter, pause and reflect. These six questions are not just about your career — they’re about your clarity, confidence, and alignment.
And if you’re ready to explore these questions in a deeper, supported way, I’m here to help.
As an ICF-accredited Success Coach, I work with professionals navigating change — helping them reconnect with their values, redefine success on their own terms, and take purposeful steps forward.
Let’s begin your clarity journey together.
