Are You on Career Autopilot?

Are you feeling stuck or disconnected at work?

You’ve built a successful career, but perhaps you’re going through the motions, you are feeling exhausted or are quietly wondering, “Is this really it?”

Answer six quick questions to discover your current Career Mode, what may be keeping you stuck and the first practical step to help you move forward.

It takes around three minutes.

At the end of most working days, how do you usually feel?

Mentally and emotionally exhausted. I have very little left to give.

Fine on the outside, but flat inside. Nothing feels terribly wrong, but it doesn’t feel quite right either.

Frustrated with myself because I know I want something to change, but I keep putting off taking action.

On the whole I’m good, even though work isn’t perfect.

Imagine nothing changed at work for the next six months. What is your immediate reaction?

I genuinely don’t know whether I can carry on like this.

I could carry on, but I’d still be wondering, “Is this really it?”

I really hope I’ve finally done something about it by then.

I’m broadly comfortable with the direction I’m heading in.

How have you made most of your recent career decisions?

Based on what will help me manage the immediate pressure and get through the week.

By taking the sensible next step or doing what I thought was expected of me.

By researching, reflecting and considering options but often struggling to make a decision.

By thinking about my values, strengths and the life I want to create.

When you think about exploring something new, what usually happens?

I don’t have enough energy to think about it properly.

I tend to follow the most obvious or sensible path, even when I’m not sure I genuinely want it.

I research roles, update LinkedIn or edit my CV, but rarely take meaningful action.

I pause and consider whether the opportunity genuinely fits what matters to me.

How is work affecting the rest of your life?

The people I love often get the most exhausted or irritable version of me.

I don’t feel quite like myself anymore, even though everything looks fine from the outside.

Thinking about changing careers takes up a lot of headspace, but I still feel stuck.

I generally have boundaries that protect my energy, time and relationships.

What feels like the biggest obstacle in your career right now?

I don’t have enough energy or space to think clearly.

I’ve lost touch with what I genuinely want.

I know more than I think, but I’m struggling to turn it into action.

My challenge is continuing to protect and build on what I’ve created.