You Don’t Need All the Answers—Just the Next Step

When it comes to career transitions or life changes, one of the most common things I hear from clients is, “I just need clarity.” And it’s true—clarity is powerful. But it’s also elusive, especially when we believe we need to figure everything out before we can take action.

That’s where many people get stuck. The pressure to have a fully mapped-out plan, the fear of making the “wrong” choice, and the endless spiral of overthinking can be paralyzing. I often remind my clients: you don’t need all the answers to move forward—you just need the next step.

I recently came across an article on Career Shifters called “How to Change Career When You’ve No Idea What To Do Next”, and I found myself nodding throughout. It highlights a powerful truth—action precedes clarity, not the other way around. Waiting to feel 100% confident before taking a step can keep you stuck indefinitely. But taking even a small action—an informational interview, a short course, a conversation—can unlock insights that thinking alone never will.

This is the essence of what I encourage in coaching: take one tangible step. Then the next. Each action gives you feedback—about what energizes you, what drains you, what fits, what doesn’t. Over time, this process builds momentum. You may not end up where you initially expected, but you’ll be closer to something real, something that aligns with who you are now.

So if you're feeling overwhelmed, don't try to solve the whole puzzle today. Just ask yourself: What’s one step I can take that’s rooted in curiosity or interest? Do that. Then ask again.

Clarity doesn't arrive all at once. It emerges as you move.