Fortune Telling and Career Decisions: Balancing Belief with Opportunity
If you live in Thailand long enough, you’ll know that luck and fortune play a significant role in everyday life. From business deals to personal relationships, many people consult fortune tellers for guidance on major decisions. Social media, advertisements, and media platforms are filled with astrology predictions, lucky colors, and auspicious dates, reinforcing the deep-rooted belief in fate.
In the world of recruitment and career development, these beliefs can sometimes influence job decisions. Over the years, I have encountered several cases where candidates hesitated—or even declined—job offers because their fortune teller predicted bad luck in changing jobs. Respecting Cultural Beliefs While Making Career Choices
To be clear, I am 100% Thai, and like many, I enjoy checking my horoscope or choosing the right color to wear for important occasions. Fortune telling is an integral part of Thai culture, providing reassurance and a sense of control in uncertain times.
However, I always remember a powerful quote from one of my mentors:
“Your palm can tell your future, but when you close your fist, your palm is inside—meaning that you determine your own destiny.”
This perspective has guided me whenever I’ve faced doubt about important decisions. While external signs and predictions can provide comfort, personal growth, skills, and mindset are ultimately what shape career success.
Opportunity Never Waits – You Must Grab It
In today’s fast-moving job market, opportunity does not wait for anyone. While it’s natural to seek guidance before making big decisions, waiting for the “perfect time” or avoiding change due to fear can lead to missed chances.
Think about it! Companies don’t hold positions open indefinitely, and industries evolve rapidly. The job that is available today might not be there tomorrow. Employers seek candidates who are ready to take action, show confidence, and embrace new challenges.
If you pass up an opportunity because the timing isn’t “ideal,” someone else will take it. And in many cases, the real regret isn’t in making the change but in waiting too long and letting a great chance slip away.
The Practical Side: Finding the Right Balance
For job seekers navigating career decisions, balancing personal beliefs with practical opportunities is key. Here are a few things to consider:
- Timing vs. Opportunity – While waiting for the “right time” might feel safer, delaying a great opportunity could mean missing out on long-term career growth.
- Skill and Preparation Matter – Regardless of luck, continuous learning, experience, and adaptability are what truly drive success.
- Employers Are Flexible – If concerns about timing exist, some companies may allow adjustments to start dates to align with personal comfort. Open communication is key.
- Success Comes to Those Who Take Action – The most successful professionals are the ones who recognize opportunities and act on them, rather than waiting for the stars to align.
Final Thoughts
Belief in luck, fate, and fortune telling is deeply woven into Thai culture, and it’s important to respect personal values. However, when it comes to career decisions, opportunity does not wait. The difference between success and stagnation often comes down to one thing: taking action.
At APlus Career, we help professionals navigate their career paths with a mix of practical advice and cultural understanding. Whether you’re actively looking for new opportunities or considering a career move, we’re here to support you.
So, when the right opportunity knocks—will you open the door, or will you wait and watch it pass by?
Contact APlus Career Today!
Ready to optimize your hiring process? Visit www.aplus-career.com to learn more about our recruitment solutions and how we can help you find the right talent for your business.
Nina has over 15 years of experience working in Executive Search and running recruitment teams. She has extensive expertise servicing clients in a variety of industries, including the manufacturing, automotive, electronics, chemical, retail, and life science industries. APlus Career Recruitment Co., Ltd. was recently established by Nina as a boutique recruitment agency in 2022. The company serves clients in the areas of recruitment and HR solutions. Contact us for additional details.