Work Transition Stress Test

Making a work transition can be a daunting task for anyone to take on. Whether you hate your job and are looking for a way out, or you got laid off and there simply isn’t a demand for your career anymore, you may been needing a transition. However, many things can keep this from happening. A variety of stresses often hinder people from making a smooth transition into a new career. The following is a test where you use a rating system to pinpoint stresses in your transition. Rate each item according to how negatively you feel toward it.

1. Always 2. Often 3. Sometimes 4. Seldom 5. Never

___ 1. I get easily distracted by other priorities or projects
___ 2. I do not keep a convenient, quiet and organized place where I can make phone calls and do other transition-related activities
___ 3. I feel uncertain about how to successful write a business plan for a new company, conduct a job search successfully or redesign my current job.
___ 4. I often get interrupted or distracted by other people while working.
___ 5. I do not actively network within my field, and do not have good interview skills.
___ 6. I constantly have a fear of failure.
___ 7. I feel angry and embarrassed about the transition time I’m facing.
___ 8. I do not enjoy time off when I have it.
___ 9. I have a constant feeling of being overwhelmed by all that needs to get accomplished.
___ 10. I despise attending support and networking meetings within my field, so I choose not to attend.
___ 11. I feel intimidated by calling strangers for information regarding job/business/career opportunities that are available, so I don’t call.
___ 12. I work hard all day to complete this transition, but nothing ever seems to get accomplished.
___ 13. I constantly change my mind about what direction I want to take regarding my career decisions.
___ 14. I feel confused about my personal interests and how that relates to my career opportunities.
___ 15. I have not idea what is the next step to take.
___ 16. I feel the tendency to procrastinate the things I know I need to accomplish.
___ 17. I cannot find anything that truly sparks a passion inside of me.
___ 18. I have the nagging feeling that I should be completed with this transition by now.
___ 19. I do not have the same level of energy and passion as I used to.
___ 20. I do not have a constant stream of support from colleagues, friends or even family members to help me during this time of transition.

Items that you marked as a 1 or 2 need your attention right away. It is likely what is stopping your from making a successful transition.