For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction
This is Newton’s Third Law of Motion, and it tells us a lot about what is necessary to make progress in our careers.
In physics this means that in every interaction, there is a pair of forces acting on the two interacting objects. The size of the forces on both objects is the same, but the direction of the forces between the two objects is opposite. Forces always come in pairs.
Think of a car – the wheels spin and push backwards against the road. The road, in turn, pushes the wheels forward, thus propelling the car. These forces are opposite in direction, but the same in size.
To keep with this example – in order to propel ourselves and make progress, we must push against something larger and more stable than ourselves.
The road and everything that is a part of it is much more solid than a car, thus the ground doesn’t even seem to move at all due to the force of the car wheels pushing backwards, but cars can accelerate quite quickly. Conversely, if a car tried to drive on small items like marbles or slippery surfaces like mud or snow, this wouldn’t work. The marbles or snow would simply be pushed back, and the car would hardly move.
The same is true with us – we must push against a solid foundation in order to accelerate and progress towards our objectives. We will simply be “spinning our wheels” trying to accelerate if we are not on firm ground.
What makes a firm ground to accelerate our careers on? Here are a few things:
- A support system – do you have family, friends, mentors, etc. to help you make the career shift you want to make?
- A positive personal mindset – do you believe this change is possible? Do you believe you have the capacity to succeed?
- Is your desired goal/objective SMART? (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely)
These 3 basic suggestions are also interrelated – a support system of people will help improve your mindset and your personal beliefs that this change is possible. They can also help you define and refine your goals.
You can make a career change and accelerate your personal development in a positive direction – you just have to follow the laws of science! Firm up your road and press on the gas.
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