How to Make Great Career Decisions

When it comes to your career, making great decisions can feel daunting. The stakes are high, the options are endless, and the pressure to “get it right” is real. But what if you could approach career choices with more clarity, confidence, and even a sense of ease?

Here’s a practical playbook—rooted in coaching wisdom and real-world experience—to help you navigate your next big (or small) career decision.

1. Pause and Check In

Before diving into options or advice, take a moment to pause. Ask yourself: “How am I feeling right now about my career?”

• Are you energized, anxious, stuck, or excited?

• Where do you feel that in your body—tense shoulders, butterflies, a sense of calm?

This simple check-in grounds you in the present and helps you notice what’s really going on beneath the surface.

2. Clarify What Matters Most

Great decisions are built on a foundation of values and principles.Ask yourself: “What truly matters to me in my work and life?”

• Is it growth, stability, creativity, impact, flexibility, or something else?

• Write down your top 3-5 values or guiding principles.

Example: If “growth” is a value, you might prioritize roles that offer learning and challenge over comfort or predictability.

3. Imagine the Future

Try this visualization exercise: Picture yourself a year from now, having made the decision. What does your day look like? How do you feel? Who are you working with?

• Notice the details, but also the emotions.

• If you feel energized and aligned, that’s a clue. If you feel drained or uneasy, pay attention.

4. Gather Information—But Don’t Get Stuck

Do your research. Talk to people in the roles or industries you’re considering. Make a list of pros and cons. But remember: No amount of data will make the decision for you. At some point, you have to trust your own judgment.

5. Experiment Before You Commit

If possible, run a small experiment.

• Can you shadow someone for a day?

• Take on a freelance project?

• Volunteer in a new area?

Testing the waters helps you gather real-world feedback and reduces the pressure of an all-or-nothing leap.

6. Be Willing to Disappoint—With Kindness

Sometimes, making the right decision for yourself means saying “no” to others’ expectations—family, colleagues, even your own inner critic.Remember: You can’t build a fulfilling career by trying to please everyone. Practice saying, “This is what feels right for me right now,” with kindness and firmness.

7. Decide “For” Something, Not Just “Against” Something

Instead of running away from what you don’t want, move toward what you do want.Ask: “What am I choosing for?”

• Are you choosing for growth, balance, impact, or creativity?

• Let your decision be an act of intention, not just avoidance.

8. Reflect and Adjust

No decision is final forever.After you make your choice, check in regularly:

• Is this still aligned with my values?

• What am I learning?

• Do I need to course-correct?

Growth is a journey, not a destination.

In Summary

Making great career decisions isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about knowing yourself, honoring what matters most, and having the courage to act—even when it’s uncomfortable.

Ready to take the next step? Start with a pause, get clear on your principles, and move forward with intention. Your future self will thank you.

Want support with your next big career move? Let’s connect for a coaching session and create your personalized decision-making playbook.