Stepping into the unknown can seem so scary! Every so often a job opportunity comes up as a secondment, fixed term or a stretch assignment and at times it takes a while making a decision. Is it the right time, right route, safe option and is it worth a try? From a scale of 1 to 10 – how many people feel content, happy and fulfilled with where they are? Some rarely think of trying something different.

Questions such as this always linger on many peoples minds – Should I ? Shouldn’t I? What happens after a fixed term role e.g 8 months, 12 months, 18 months? I saw this secondment/ stretch opportunity, but I don’t think I can apply. Can I have this conversation with my manager? Exploring options and choosing a right career path or following ‘your dream’ is one of the most nerve wracking and complex experiences we can face in our lives.

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs reminds us that human beings are driven by the desire to meet basic needs that is: to be happy, to have a meaning, to be contribute positively in society and human connectedness. The ‘Mind of leader’ book encourages mindfulness and self awareness.

While facing the dilemma of is this right for me? It is important to carry out a SWOT and be self aware. What values do I hold? What makes me tick?

To be honest, working in healthcare or NHS gives an individual the best opportunity to test different paths, learn new things and broaden your understanding of the bigger picture.

Recently, I have been asked how do I manage to switch roles and cope with the uncertainty of what next? I wish I could spell out my plan but, I don’t have one. At times, a little diversion is good for your own growth and development and exposes you to how an organisation works.

For instance: in Nursing once you have your Bsc Hons Nursing degree it doesn’t mean you have to follow the traditional linear pathway : Nurse – Sister – Deputy Ward Manager- Ward Manager – Matron etc. There are several paths you can take whether it is clinical, education, corporate, charity sector, research or management. You don’t have to get discouraged by focusing on the known path and don’t despair when things don’t go to plan.

I have never had a plan of what I want or where I see myself in the next 5 or 10 years. I know there are people who are meticulous and have well laid plans and stick to it. But, I am a bit unorthodox ! In fact it took me a while to sign up to having a coach. The thought of discussing my thoughts and plans is something that I wasn’t sure I was prepared to do, although I knew it was beneficial to have a coach. I think it was a great decision to have a career conversation with a coach that made me start thinking about my values, what really matters and to begin with goal setting.

People are different and some are happy and content where they are – which is absolutely fine. However, if you feel there is something you want to try then give it a go. Don’t hesitate in having a conversation with someone or just apply and see what happens. At times it takes a leap of faith to get to where you want in life. If it works out that’s well and good; if it doesn’t take it as a lesson and don’t let it deter you in realising your full potential.

The world is an oyster and the beauty of nursing or vocational courses is that you will always have the skills. As people say; once a nurse, always a nurse! Based on the demand vis a vis supply – there is a shortage of nurses in the country and a high demand for the profession.

Do your research for your career progression – Look at the pros and cons. What’s the alternative – is it better to live and regret ‘I wish I had’ or give it a shot and see if it works for you and gain a different insight and perspective!