212. Break It to Make It: Disrupt Your Way to the Perfect Job Fit

Career growth starts with stepping outside your comfort zone. Building a successful career isn’t about following a set path—it’s about knowing when to evolve and embracing change. Whitney Johnson believes that success comes from disrupting yourself—challenging routines, stepping into discomfort, and continuously evolving. “People think staying in their comfort zone is the safe choice,” she explains, “but real growth happens when we take intentional risks.” As a bestselling author and leadership expert, Johnson has spent years helping individuals and organizations navigate change. She breaks down the S-curve of learning, a framework that helps professionals recognize when it’s time to move on, pivot, or double down on their current path. From identifying signs of stagnation to developing strategies for career reinvention, she shares practical tools for making bold moves with confidence. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , Johnson joins host Matt Abrahams to explore why mastery can be a sign that it’s time for a change, how to manage the discomfort that comes with growth, and why personal disruption isn’t just a challenge—it’s the key to long-term success. To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium Episode Reference Links: Whitney Johnson Whitney’s Books: Disrupt Yourself / Smart Growth Ep.147 Disrupt Yourself: How to Innovate Who You Are and Become Who You Can Be Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (02:42) - What Is Personal Disruption? (04:50) - Signs It’s Time to Disrupt Yourself (07:12) - Getting Comfortable with Discomfort (12:09) - Finding Your Next Career Move (15:58) - Ensuring Fulfillment After Disruption (21:46) - Best Career Advice Received (23:19) - Career Regrets & Lessons (24:50) - Conclusion ******** Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost. This episode is brought to you by Babbel . Think Fast Talk Smart listeners can get started on your language learning journey today- visit Babbel.com/Thinkfast and get up to 55% off your Babbel subscription. Join our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be.