NEW COURSE: How to Make Adulting Suck Less: https://jessdiamondcoaching.com/suck-less/ Watch my TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RE_7I6vDKrI Episode SummaryWhat if you stopped waiting for someone to give you permission to build the career you actually want? In this episode, I’m joined by Austin Lutz, a technology consultant, entrepreneur, product builder, and host of Lut's Talk, to talk about what it actually looks like to take career risks before you feel completely ready. We talk about Austin leaving a stable job for a startup just months before getting married and buying a house, why your twenties can be the best time to take calculated risks, and how to know the difference between a bad idea and an idea that just needs to be reframed. We also get into the reality of being a multi-passionate person, balancing a full-time job with side projects and family, and why you probably have more time than you think you do. Austin shares how building businesses outside of his full-time career has actually made him better at his day job, while I break down the skills your full-time job can help you develop for the career or business you want to build later. And perhaps most importantly, we talk about why you shouldn't wait for a promotion, title, degree, or someone else's approval to start doing the work you want to be known for. Your career doesn't have to follow one perfectly planned path—and you don't have to have everything figured out before you start creating opportunities for yourself. Key TakeawaysYou don't have to wait for someone else to give you permission to pursue the career you want.A calculated risk isn't about throwing your life into chaos—it's about understanding the potential risks, rewards, and outcomes before making a decision.Being busy doesn't necessarily mean you don't have time. You have to intentionally decide where your time goes.You don't have to abandon an idea just because the first version isn't working. Sometimes you need to reframe it.Your friends and family can be your cheerleaders, but you also need people who are willing to challenge your ideas and tell you the truth.The people you meet throughout your career can become future mentors, collaborators, employers, or opportunities.What you do outside of your full-time job can teach you skills that make you better at your full-time job.Your full-time job can also help you develop the skills you need to eventually pursue entrepreneurship or another career path.You don't need to work more hours to prove yourself. Focus on improving the quality of your work and building skills.Don't tie your self-worth to your job title, salary, or promotion.Doing nothing is still a decision, and it won't move you any closer to the career or life you want. Frequently Asked QuestionsHow do I know if I'm ready to take a career risk? You probably won't ever feel completely ready. The goal isn't to eliminate the risk or fear, but to understand the potential outcomes, think through your options, and decide whether the risk is worth taking. Should I quit my job to start a business? Not necessarily. The episode emphasizes that there are multiple ways to build toward something new. You can keep your full-time job while developing skills, networking, testing an idea, and building something on the side before making a bigger transition. What if my idea isn't working? Don't immediately assume the entire idea is bad. Look at what isn't working, talk to people outside your immediate circle, gather feedback, and consider whether you need to change the audience, messaging, product, or approach. But also be willing to admit when something genuinely isn't working and move on. How can I make time for a side project? You can't manufacture more hours in the day. Instead, you have to decide which projects deserve your limited time and temporarily table things that aren't a priority. Being intentional about your calendar can create more space than you realize. Why is networking so important in your twenties? The people you meet can expose you to opportunities, perspectives, and knowledge you wouldn't have access to otherwise. Finding mentors and intentionally building relationships can help you grow faster and connect you to opportunities later in your career. Do I need to be qualified before I start doing the job I want? Not always. The episode explores the idea of starting to do the work you want before someone officially gives you permission. You can build skills, take on responsibilities, create projects, and demonstrate your ability before you have the title that says you can. What if I don't have the right degree or credentials? Credentials can be valuable, but they aren't the only indicators of whether you're capable of doing something. Skills, curiosity, willingness to learn, follow-through, and the ability to solve problems can matter just as much in many careers. How do I deal with imposter syndrome? Recognize that feeling unqualified doesn't necessarily mean you are unqualified. Sometimes you're simply doing something you've never done before. Taking action, building experience, and allowing yourself to learn along the way can help you develop confidence. Is it okay if my career doesn't follow one path? Absolutely. Your career can change throughout your twenties, thirties, and beyond. You don't have to choose one permanent identity or have your entire career figured out right now. Helpful Resources: Let’s chat: https://calendly.com/coach_jessdiamond/success 3 ways to stop spiraling: https://jessdiamondcoaching.com/spiral/ Email Me: coach.jessdiamond@gmail.com Contribute to an episode: https://forms.gle/QwvBrZFbZXRdCjQv9 Be a Guest: https://forms.gle/oiLVCbrydjzaK5pq5 Connect with Austin Lutz Website: lutztalk.com Music: Hide and Seek by Free Music https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic Music Promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons/Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US
