Your opportunity set is fixed in the short term.
But over time, it will grow or shrink.
Most people only look at their options when they want something to change.
You could be feeling stuck.
Or your role may end.
Or you may receive a surprising offer.
But in that moment of wanting change, your options are fixed.
You’re limited to what’s on the table today.
You might go online and see a handful of job ads.
Or you might go to HR and hope there are any opportunities to advance.
Or you might reach out to a recruiter and hear that they haven’t got much for you right now.
And sure, there might be one opportunity available today that really speaks to you.
But it’s more likely that you’ll be disappointed by how few opportunities are available.
That’s why I always tell people to keep exploring their career opportunities when they don’t need to make a change.
Because over time, your opportunity set is dynamic.
It expands when you stay active, as you build relationships and create connections.
And if you ignore it?
Well, it’s probably shrinking.
And you’re risking having a very narrow opportunity set when the time comes to make a change.
This isn’t about being ready to jump ship.
It’s about being able to choose what’s best for you at any time, not just when you want a change and are forced into choosing what’s available.