Aunty B, you’ve made me nervous!

Aunty B,

I love your blog and always find your advice spot on and insightful. After reading your last entry however – I don’t feel my potential is being realised – I am now slightly more nervous about a new job prospect I am going for later this year.

There are elements of the position that will stretch or challenge my skills set and other elements that I will essentially be learning as I go. The lion’s share of the role though is ‘my bag’, but the position is definitely a leap from where I am. I want the job and do yearn for the challenge it brings, so I’m telling myself to push myself as ‘nothing ventured nothing gained’, realising one’s strengths and weaknesses is also important. I’m hoping that when push comes to shove, my strengths outweigh my weaknesses and I’m worrying for nothing.

Perhaps this has come about as I’ve been doing the same job for seven years now and I’m a bit stale, so a new job and dusting off the CV is making me nervous or more apprehensive – plus the fact I have a family to support now and need to feel secure at all times.

Sounding like I don’t have a point and simply rambling? I’m sorry, nervous energy perhaps. Anyway, my point is, I read and digest your comments and your last post simply fits the current stage in my professional life when I need to make the right decision and back myself, yet also be honest with my skills and ability to perform in a new position. I suppose I am just questioning myself again which is not necessarily a bad thing?

Thanks for listening and any advice will, as always, be taken on board!

Coulda shoulda woulda

Dear Could shoulda woulda,

Hold your horses. There is a world of difference between poor old Tony and yourself. Tony is being told by his boss that he doesn’t have what they need to get to the next level. He, himself, admits he doesn’t like to do some of the chief tasks that go with that job. But he refuses to hear this because he is trying to squeeze himself into a square hole while actually having no idea what shape he actually is. Our friend Tony needs a reality check because he wouldn’t be happy stepping into that new role and he won’t do it well.

Your situation is different. The lion’s share is your bag, as you say. You want the job and yearn for the challenges. So enjoy your nerves. Nerves are also a symptom of excitement!

Be smart,
Your Aunty B

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