I have been an executive recruiter and search consultant for more than 25 years, and if there is one thing I know, it is that many people are afraid of change. And even if they are not afraid of it, they sometimes go out of their way to avoid it.
And in many cases, including within the professional world, that is a mistake.
There are a couple of reasons why this is the case. First, change is inevitable in life. You can either resist it or you can choose to adapt to it and learn how to benefit from it.
Second, when you embrace change, you will begin to see it as an opportunity for growth, innovation, and personal development.
Why change is NOT the enemy
With this in mind, below are six reasons why change is not a threat, but instead represents an opportunity for growth and development:
#1—It pushes you out of your “comfort zone.”
This discomfort may initially seem threatening, but it is precisely in these moments of discomfort that we have the opportunity to learn, adapt, and develop new skills. Stepping into the unknown allows us to discover hidden talents, expand our capabilities, and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves.
#2—It provides an opportunity for innovation and creativity.
When we are confronted with new challenges or changes in our environment, it forces us to “think outside the box” and find creative solutions. Change disrupts the status quo and encourages us to question existing systems, processes, and assumptions.
This mindset shift can lead to breakthroughs and innovative ideas that can shape industries, communities, and even society as a whole. Organizations that embrace change as an opportunity for innovation often thrive in dynamic and competitive markets.
#3—It can foster adaptability and resilience.
Those who resist change often find themselves overwhelmed and ill-prepared when unexpected circumstances arise. On the other hand, individuals who embrace change as an opportunity develop the ability to adapt, pivot, and thrive in the face of adversity.
This adaptability not only helps individuals overcome challenges, but it also enables them to seize new opportunities that arise from change.
#4—It has the potential to improve relationships.
By embracing change and being open to new perspectives, individuals can break free from unproductive patterns and foster healthier connections. Change can encourage individuals to communicate more effectively, adapt to new circumstances, and cultivate empathy and understanding.
Relationships that withstand and adapt to change are often the ones that grow stronger, as they are built on trust, resilience, and the ability to navigate through life’s ups and downs.
#5—It can be a catalyst for advancement.
Embracing change by acquiring new skills, staying up to date with emerging trends, and adapting to new working environments can position individuals for better career prospects. In addition, change often brings with it opportunities for professional networking, collaboration, and entrepreneurship.
By embracing change, individuals can harness these opportunities to forge new career paths, explore innovative ideas, and enhance their professional standing.
#6—It can have a positive impact on your personal well-being.
When we resist change, we often hold on to old habits, beliefs, and routines that no longer serve us. By embracing change, we give ourselves the chance to reassess our priorities, set new goals, and make positive changes in our lives.
Change can offer us the opportunity to pursue passions and explore new interests. It can bring a sense of excitement, adventure, and fulfillment that can enrich our lives and enhance our overall well-being.
Are you retiring with your current employer?
There is currently a tremendous amount of opportunity in the job market, especially for those who are working in the Veterinary profession. Since that is the case, there is no better time to embrace change than right now. Change is not a threat. Instead, inaction is a threat, namely because it lulls you into a false sense of security and can lead you into a “career rut.”
The question that I like to ask is this one: “Are you going to retire with your current employer?”
The answer to that question is probably, “No.” Not only that, but the younger you are, the more likely it is that you’re going to change jobs and employers multiple times throughout your career. According to the job board site Zippia, the average person will change jobs 12 times during the course of their lifetime. How many times have you changed jobs so far in your career?
And if you are a member of the younger generations (Millennials and Generation Z), you will probably change jobs more than 12 times. That is because it has become commonplace for the members of these generations to change jobs every two to three years. In fact, some young professionals, including those in the Animal Health industry and Veterinary profession, are changing jobs every 18 months and even more frequently than that.
As I stated at the beginning of this article, change is inevitable. It does not matter how old you are or to what generation you belong. The only question is, “What are you going to do about it?” Are you going to resist change or are you going to embrace it and look for the opportunities that it presents for growth and development?”
We at The VET Recruiter know all about change. We have been helping Animal Health and Veterinary professionals embrace change by taking advantage of new opportunities to grow their career for more than two decades. There is an excellent chance that you are not going to retire with your current employer, and since that is the case, it is a good idea to be open to opportunities. (That is another way of saying being open to change.)
If you’re looking to make a change or explore your employment options, then we want to talk with you. I encourage you to contact us or you can also create a profile and/or submit your resume for consideration.
We help support careers in one of two ways: 1. By helping Animal Health and Veterinary professionals to find the right opportunity when the time is right, and 2. By helping to recruit top talent for the critical needs of Animal Health and Veterinary organizations. If this is something that you would like to explore further, please send an email to stacy@thevetrecruiter.com.