The Tipping Point

There’s a point in any uncomfortable situation when the right course of action becomes undeniably clear.

For me, this is usually when the pain of staying in the same place outweighs the fear of making a change. I wish I could say that I’m brave, decisive and forge ahead into unchartered waters before the stagnancy of the shore becomes unbearable. But that would be a lie.

I need to know that staying put will be worse than the unknown before I make the leap. I like to blame my years as a solicitor, dealing with the fallout of people’s poor choices, for this reticence. However, I suspect it’s the personality trait which drew me to the profession, rather than the job which engendered the fear. Maybe a little of both.

Either way, I find the process of making life changes fascinating, and love helping clients gain the clarity and resolve to do the thing they know deep down is right.

I’m always full of admiration for those who are decisive and stride boldly into the new, and full of empathy for those who tiptoe tentatively towards their goal.

Whatever your style, having a wingman (whether a coach, wise friend or supportive partner) is invaluable. They can point out possibilities and pitfalls we may not have considered, and hopefully to cheerlead us as we move ahead, however imperfectly.

Which category do you fall into? Do you leap before you’re ready, or itemise the pros and cons into 14 different spreadsheets before you press go? I’d love to know.