Anita is an IT professional. She is presently in Hyderabad with her parent and prefers to work from home. Her organization has written to all employees about two months back to report to the office in Mumbai. She has been postponing her departure, but now she has been instructed to report within a week. She is troubled and unable to decide whether to look for a job in Hyderabad or move to Mumbai.
Had she decided to stay in Hyderabad when her organization asked her to report to Mumbai two months back, she would have had sufficient time to search for a job in Hyderabad.
So many like Anita go through this kind of situation just because they keep procrastinating on making decisions.
Why do people put off decisions?
Let’s explore why people keep putting off significant life decisions such as career transitions and moving out of the family home.
Deciding to change careers or move to another city can be daunting. Therefore, many people keep putting it off. Let us understand a few common factors:
- The prospect of a new industry or role can be overwhelming and add to fear.
- Economic conditions or industry trends can lead to hesitation.
- Job security is a prime factor. A stable income can be a strong motivator to stay in a current role.
- Financial obligations such as debt, mortgages, or family responsibilities might limit career risks.
- Not having sufficient financial cushion can be essential for career transitions.
- Family responsibilities like looking after the elderly in the family or raising children can limit career options.
- Lacking the requisite skills or necessary qualifications for a desired career.
Career Transition
There can be different reasons to consider a career transition such as you have a good salary but don’t enjoy the job or vice versa. The job you like will need you to relocate to another city, etc. The implications involved may make you tend to defer your decision to change.
“Procrastination is the thief of time.” – Edward Young
Change is inherently difficult but essential. While every decision may not seem the best in retrospect, these experiences are valuable learning opportunities for better future choices.
Therefore, take the first step towards a decision. Consider the following before deciding on a career change:
- Why do you wish to change, is it because of a bad boss or you do not like the job?
- What do you want to achieve by changing to a new role?
- What kind of lifestyle do you envision?
- What skills do you possess that you can apply to a new field? What new skills do you need to learn or upskill?
- Plan your finances for transition. Build an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses in the transition phase.
- Remember to look at career transition as an opportunity for growth.
 The longer you postpone making decisions, the harder they become. A new situation may arrive, and you may lose the opportunity completely! This can lead to increased stress, diminished mental peace, and potential negative impacts on overall health and happiness.
Moving Away from Family Home
Moving away from your family home is a significant life decision. It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement, fear, and uncertainty. People move for many reasons such as education and career opportunities, wanting personal freedom, overcoming dependency on parents, etc.
Here are some approaches to help you decide:
- Clearly understand why you’re considering a move. Is it for career opportunities, personal growth, or a lifestyle change?
- What matters most to you in life? Consider factors like job satisfaction, relationships, quality of life, and financial stability.
- Think about the strength of your support network in your current city and how it might compare to a new location.
- Explore different cities or countries based on your motivations. Consider the cost of living, job market, climate, culture, and safety.
- Create a detailed budget to understand the financial implications of the move. Factor in housing costs, transportation, living expenses, and potential income.
- Research visa requirements, healthcare options, education systems (if applicable), and housing markets in your potential destinations.
- Talk to your family about your feelings and reasons for considering a move.
- Get input from trusted friends and family members who have experience with relocation.
- If you have family commitments, assess how a move would impact them.
- Weigh the Pros and Cons by writing down the potential benefits and drawbacks of staying and moving.
- Determine which factors are most important to you and assign weights accordingly.
- Understand that moving to a new place involves risk, but also carries potential rewards.
The decision to move out is a personal one that should be based on careful consideration of your goals, financial situation, and life circumstances.
Why should you address them promptly?
Overall, procrastinating on significant life decisions can have far-reaching consequences. Here’s why it’s crucial to address them promptly:
- Life is full of opportunity. Delaying decisions can lead to missing out on valuable experiences, jobs, relationships, or educational pursuits.
- Uncertainty about the future can cause significant stress and anxiety. Once you decide, it provides you relief and clarity for the future.
- Indecisiveness can lead to regret later in life. You might wonder “What if you had made that decision” and feel dissatisfied with your current situation.
- The longer you wait, the options get reduced as circumstances can change.
- Procrastination on important decisions can strain relationships with family, friends, or partners.
- Procrastinating decisions about career, education, or finances can lead to negative financial outcomes.
Moving out of your comfort zone and making decisions can help your personal growth. While it is essential to consider options, excessive procrastination can impede progress and overall well-being.
Therefore, wait no more, make decisions timely so that you are in control of your life!
