Feeling Like an Impostor? That Means You’re Growing
Whenever I consider switching jobs or searching for a new role, one thought always stays with me:
👉 If you don’t feel like an impostor in the first week of your new job, you’re not growing in your career.
What this really means is that your next job should demand more from you than what you already know. It should push you beyond your comfort zone and require you to learn something new.
At first, you might feel like an impostor—pretending to know how to do the job. But after a week (or soon after), you’ll have learned the essentials and will no longer feel like an outsider. Instead, you’ll transform into someone who truly knows how to do the job.
How to Choose the Right Job for Career Growth
When looking for a job change, don’t just focus on salary or benefits. If you have the opportunity, consider roles that push you beyond your current expertise. By doing so, you’ll accelerate your learning, gain new skills, and expand your career prospects.
Here are some key points to keep in mind when switching jobs for career growth:
âś… 1. Avoid jobs that are a perfect match for your experience
If a job is identical to what you’ve been doing, chances are you’ll just be doing the same work in a different company—for more money but with no real growth.
✅ 2. Don’t jump into a completely different field
A drastic career shift can be overwhelming, and you might struggle to compete with those who have actual experience in that domain. Instead, choose a job that stretches your abilities without making you feel lost.
âś… 3. Growth > Money (at least sometimes)
Salary is important, but if your primary goal is career advancement, prioritize learning opportunities over immediate financial gain. The money will follow once you build expertise in new areas.
âś… 4. Be open to unexpected roles
Some jobs might not sound exciting on paper, but they can open doors to valuable skills and experiences. Job titles rarely define what you actually do—so take the role and make the most of it.
âś… 5. Find mentors who have done what you aspire to do
If you’re stepping into unfamiliar territory, seek out people who have walked that path before you. Their guidance can help you navigate the transition smoothly.
When Growth Isn’t the Priority—Survival Comes First
While career growth is important, it’s not always the reason people switch jobs. More often than not, people look for a new job because:
âś… They need one
✅ Their current job isn’t paying enough
âś… They are facing layoffs or instability
If financial security is your priority, don’t be too selective. Instead, look for a job that matches your current skills and offers better pay. Social media may tell you to chase your passion, but in reality, paying the bills comes first.
You can always seek better opportunities later, but securing an income today is crucial.
Final Thought
Many career coaches talk about work-life balance, high salaries, and finding a job you love. But for those with families and dependents, the best job is often the one that puts food on the table. And the best company? The one that takes a chance on you.
No matter what stage of your career you’re in, keep growing—but also stay practical. Your career is a marathon, not a sprint.
