Getting Uncomfortable in Order to Level Up

I’m Hayley, an occupational therapist who recently stepped away from my full- time job, driven by a persistent urge to break out of my comfort zone, embark on a journey of self-discovery and explore new ways to use my skills to make an impact. I love the profession of occupational therapy, and I truly believe I embody all that an occupational therapist is. With that being said, I could no longer ignore my intuition that was telling me something greater is in store for me and that I have more to offer by using my skills to impact people in new ways.

The decision I made to step out of my comfort zone wasn’t easy and it didn’t happen overnight. In true OT fashion, I thought about my own life in terms of an occupational profile and analyzed each of my occupations, values, beliefs, roles, etc. in order to seek out why I felt the way I did. I realized that my occupational balance was lacking, which was causing stress, resistance and unease in many aspects of my life. I knew that I needed to break free from my constant need for comfort and start to get uncomfortable in order to level up in my personal and professional life.

I like to think of myself as an open book, and I'm known to share (maybe overshare) my life story with people I meet, but I find that it's the best way for me to feel less alone in the world. As I navigate my own journey of self-acceptance and career evolution, I’m excited to share a few insights to think about when stepping out of your comfort zone to elevate your life. There are things that I have learned and things that I am having to unlearn along the way, and I want to share some of those insights with you all. I’m no expert, just a lifelong learner sharing a little bit of my journey with you. I’d love for you to join me on this ride. Let’s dive in!

• Trust your intuition

As I mentioned earlier, I had that inner voice/inner knowing nagging at me for a few years, but I continued to quiet it over and over again due to fear of change and stepping into the unknown. It worked for a while, but to be honest, it never went away. I started to become resentful because I knew I was letting my fears and need for control hold me back from accepting something greater/what the universe had in store for me. I still do not know exactly what is in store, but I am choosing to surrender to the unknown in order to receive what is meant for me.

• Ask yourself what you want & who you want to become

This sounds like a simple, straight forward question, and technically it is. But just like many things, it can be up for interpretation: what do I want right this minute? A month from now? 5-10 years from now? For someone like me who gets caught up in seeing things in a black & white, big picture manner, these questions can feel overwhelming. Maybe you don’t know what you want 5 years from now. Truthfully, even if you did, life happens, and things change. That’s when it’s best to take a step back, close your eyes and just sit with the question. Think about your values and what you’re passionate about. I am passionate about making deep connections with others, advocating for the causes I care about and helping others in various ways. Taking this information, I am able to narrow my focus on what careers may be best suited for me. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Just take it one step at a time.

• Network and build a community

There is a lot that goes into making a career transition, and it can be overwhelming. For me, joining Collective Coaching has been an absolute game changer. This program has given me the tools I need to clarify my aim, learn how to use LinkedIn and network, polish my resume, and prepare for interviews. Most of all, it has provided me with a community of like-minded people who are also in a career transition that I can relate to and learn from.

You are who you surround yourself with. When making a transition in life or career, it can be lonely and isolating at times. It is important to cultivate a group of people who can rally behind you, cheer you on and offer advice/support. Putting yourself out there can feel daunting at first, especially if you may not be well versed in social media platforms, like LinkedIn. Make it a priority to learn how to use these tools. There are so many resources out there (coaching programs, YouTube videos, blogs, etc) that can give you a basic rundown in order to get started. Once you get the hang of it, start to network ASAP. 

It may feel uncomfortable at first, but I promise you there are people out there who were once in your shoes, and are more than willing to help in whatever way they can. I have been pleasantly surprised at how many people were agreeable to an informational interview via phone call or zoom. I have talked to people all over the US, and many of us have similar stories, and they were able to offer me great advice and support. I know that the power of networking is huge and one day I will be able to return the favor to someone that is in the position I’m in now. Don’t be that person that gatekeeps information. Let go of the scarcity mindset. Lift each other up and cheer people on! There is enough success out there for everyone.

• Put Yourself Out there & Just Go for It / Don’t be afraid to fail

As a recovering Type A perfectionist who obsesses over trying to have it all figured out, I am realizing that is not the way life is supposed to be lived. It's not possible, and there is beauty in the unknown. If you wait around for things to be perfect before you start, you’ll never get anywhere. If the fear of failure is holding you back, remember, nothing is scarier than avoiding your full potential. At the end of the day, I truly believe what is meant for you will never pass you by.

If you find yourself in a similar season of life, I hope these insights provide you with a sense of direction and to help you to feel less alone. Please feel free to reach out with any comments, advice and insights. I find that in some of my most challenging times, when I reach out and share my feelings, there’s always someone that is going through something similar. At the end of the day, we're all human. We all crave connection. We all just want to feel seen and accepted for who we are. Please know that I hear you, I see you and I am cheering you on. Together, let’s support each other and embrace the journey!