Stop Waiting for the Perfect Job (from Harvard Business Review)

"Many people don’t advance in their careers because they’re holding out for that perfect job. But perfection is an odd goal in career choice. We learn not to limit ourselves to perfect when it comes to choosing partners and houses. So why are we obsessed with the idea of a job that will fulfill all our fantasies about work? When we focus on the ideal role, we fall into an all-or-nothing trap — giving ourselves permission to do absolutely nothing. Holding out for perfect means hoping and waiting, but doing little. But actively reaching out for “good enough” can transform your career. Find work that inspires you and is reachable. If you have an idea about what your dream job might be, go find out what it feels like from the inside. Don’t allow employer branding or media portrayals to make you starry-eyed. Get firsthand information from those in the field."

Adapted from "Stop Fantasizing About the Perfect Job," by John Lees.