There is an old story of a frog in boiling water. It is relevant even today in the context of how we look at our jobs. It might be useful to learn a thing or two, looking back at this story in new light.
The stories goes like this. There was a frog that deliberately hopped into a pot. The pot had fresh water so it indulged in swimming around a bit. Not too long later, the pot of water started getting warm. Frog didn't know that the pot was set on flame to warm up. The water was getting warm, warmer and so on. Frog could now foresee that its only going to get hotter from here on. It contemplated taking the leap out of the pot but, since frogs have the skill to withstand temperature up until boiling point, it stayed on waiting for that point. Once it got too hot to handle, coping with heat was getting difficult. Soon the frog got to a point of exhaustion and it simply succumbed. It could no longer make the leap. All its energy had been spent in dealing with the conditions closing in on it.
While this 19th century story based on an experiment is challenged today, it makes for a good metaphor in our professional lives.
In professional life, some times we face situations, where we feel stagnant, lost or unmotivated. The reasons can be many, but we simply feel we are not in the right place. What do we do about it? We foresee that this feeling is slowing creeping in on us and will reach our neck sooner or later.
Sometimes, we choose to stick on, hoping for god to weave his magic. Sometimes we choose to engage ourselves in distractions to block these feelings temporarily. Sometimes we simply take things head-on and fight it out. Different people may have different approaches to deal with the "boiling pot" but seldom do we think of what it will take to make that leap until the water starts to boil beneath us.
It does not necessarily have to mean drastic measures like leaving the job, the team or city. But its got to take something special for us to gather the energy to take that metaphoric leap and get to where we are happy and content. You already know that it must start with a good PLAN. We all know what we need to do but the challenge is finding when is the right time for us to take the leap without it causing us exhaustion. I tried putting some thought around it and found few pivotal questions that we may have. Having the right answers to them, is the cornerstone in your process of change.
When do I take the leap?
Soon enough before it starts to exhaust having to cope. Pick up the early signs and stay ahead of the virus called monotony.
What is the starting point?
We need to have a goal with strict timelines. A clear personal goal will keep us motivated. Helps us see the light at the end of the tunnel (or outside of the pot :)). A set timeline makes it look attainable yet realistic and not just a beautiful faceless possibility.
I have the plan, what do I do next?
Unlearn the redundant lessons monotony has taught. Find out what skill it takes to make the leap and start working on it right away.
What challenges should I expect?
Identify distractions and stay away from them. Don't use hobby as distraction. Hobbies are supposed to help not deviate us from our goal.
I have a support structure. Who do I need to watch out for?
Don't listen to yourself! Your mind can be your biggest distraction. It is hard coded to give you ways to escape mental agony. Since any change is an uphill task, it comes with some agony and our brain constantly tells us to give-up. Our brains are strong in manifesting reasons for why we shouldn't indulge in a difficult task.
Sounds simple isn't it? It has to be, because in this entire process there is no one else involved to derail you.
Maybe in the 19th century this story was used metaphorically to teach many life lessons. But in 21st century, we have the means and ways to change it to a happy ending.
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