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Editor’s Note: We're excited to introduce a guest-led series of newsletters featuring Forbes experts. Caroline Castrillon, the founder of Corporate Escape Artist and a senior careers contributor, kicks us off.

Thinking about making a career move but feeling stuck? You’re not alone.

Many professionals are open to new opportunities, but taking that next step feels harder than it used to. LinkedIn research shows that many people are open to exploring new roles, but 76% of those surveyed don’t feel prepared to make the jump.

Just 43% of people plan to job hunt in 2026, according to Monster’s new WorkWatch Report. And though most professionals worry their income isn’t keeping pace with inflation, workers are still hesitant to switch jobs. With widespread expectations that the labor market will weaken and more workers will be laid off, people are weighing risk more carefully.

The job market isn’t exactly encouraging bold moves. After years of rapid hiring and churn, employers have become more selective. Open roles are still available, but employer expectations are higher, and hiring takes longer. Many people stay in their current roles, not because they love where they are, but because they feel safe. It’s a phenomenon known as “job hugging.”

Meanwhile, side hustles have become the fallback plan. Roughly 62% of workers either have one or are planning to launch one, the WorkWatch Report shows.........

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