A groundbreaking perspective from the Harvard Business Review is challenging the status quo: embrace the mixed feelings during those pivotal career moments.  

Those moments of uncertainty and doubt, which many have viewed as obstacles, can be opportunities for growth and self-discovery, write Brianna Barker Caza, Naomi Rothman, Jamie Strassman, and Brittany Lambert.  

Here’s some advice for professionals navigating the landscape of a big career decision: 

Embrace Self-Reflection 

Regularly set aside time to introspect. Understand what’s causing your ambivalence and what each emotion signifies. 

Seek Mentorship 

Engage with mentors or career coaches who can provide guidance, share their own experiences with ambivalence, and offer fresh perspectives. 

Engage in Continuous Learning 

Ambivalence often arises from unfamiliarity. Equip yourself with knowledge and skills relevant to your field to reduce uncertainty. 

Practice Mindfulness 

Techniques like meditation can help you stay grounded and approach ambivalence without undue stress. 

Open Dialogue 

Foster open conversations with peers and superiors about your feelings of uncertainty and ambivalence. You’ll often find that you’re not alone, and collective brainstorming can lead to innovative solutions. 

As the professional world becomes more complex, harnessing the power of ambivalence will emerge as a critical career-propelling skill.  

Read more about how to embrace ambivalence especially when making big career decisions in Harvard Business Review.  

The psychology of career decisions, according to Sharon Beldon Castonguay for TEDx.