Why feeling uncomfortable can be a good sign
Recently, I’ve had a run of clients who are in new roles and feeling a level of nerves and uncertainty as a result.
(Side note, it’s funny how things come in clusters. It reminds me of when I worked in retail. When it was quiet I could have sworn everyone was gathering around the corner out of sight until whoosh, they had enough people to rush in all at once.)
Each of these clients are in mid or senior leadership roles in a wide range of different sectors. Despite the differences in the specifics of their challenges, the theme of feeling uncertain about what to do, and the stress that comes along with that, was common to all.
I’ve written before about the stages of learning – and here’s the high-tech graphic again for your edification and viewing pleasure.
With apologies for the Rumsfeldian echoes, when we’re new in a role we are usually somewhere in either:
• conscious incompetence (acutely aware that we don’t quite know the ropes), or
• conscious competence (knowing what to do but having to apply a lot of focus to get it done).
When you think about it, either of those is better than someone who is unconsciously incompetent in a role. That person might be happy in their blissful ignorance, toodling along thinking they are fabulous… but their various stakeholders will likely hold quite a different view.
Feeling uncertain of your capabilities and having to think hard about performing the role are actually signs you are on the right track.
Reframing those uncomfortable feelings as signs of progress can, in itself, ease some of the discomfort. You must go through those stages while you are learning something new – so the discomfort means you are aware of your gaps and working to bridge them.
Eventually, you will reach unconscious competence. You know what to do and can get into a rewarding flow state, performing well with less effort required. Then it’s time to get a promotion and do it all again… right?
Until next week,
Take care of yourself and others
Madeleine
PS If you’d like to work with me to help you navigate a challenging new role or situation, let me know. Send me a message to enquire, and please share with anyone you think may benefit.
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