Analogy – the inference that two or more things that are similar to each other in some respects are also similar in other respects . . . In a legal argument, an analogy may be used when there is no precedent on point.

It is the agreement between otherwise dissimilar things that enables people to understand foreign, or otherwise confusing, concepts.

Here are two analogies that might resonate with you:

Networking and job hunting are like dating.

Career Coaching is like going to the gym.

There are many people who hate both. Which both? Career coaches and dating, networking and career coaches, dating and the gym, you choose. The point is they seem dissimilar and yet, it is the similarities that can help to move your career forward.

We’ve gone over networking and dating. Let’s explore the gym…

Do you go? Do you avoid it? Do you walk 10min at a time throughout the day? If you go to the gym alone you can get a great workout, maybe even the body of your dreams. But, if you work out with a persona trainer, yes, you are spending money to sweat, but you will get better results, more efficiently, and with more variety in your workout. I know, I don’t go to the gym without an appointment and although I keep appointments with myself, I need an appointment with someone else to get me to the gym. It’s the better, faster results gained while talking to another person, an expert, which moves me forward. Using a career coach is like using a personal trainer. Do you need one? Maybe not, but going it alone can lead to injury, lack of focus, laziness and quitting before you see any measurable results.

Here’s another (full disclosure) example: I broke up with an ex-boyfriend on a Sunday and by Thursday I was in the gym with a trainer (my 1st). I knew I couldn’t sit at home a cry and get fat(ter) and drown in more food and misery. Plus, I knew I wanted to look great when and if I saw him again. I did see him again, and I looked great, but it was the help of a personal trainer, an expert to guide me and push me when I needed it, which motivated me to succeed. Later, after I graduated from law school and I was preparing for my wedding, a new trainer was a part of my life. We worked together and were friends for years. He knew when I would get lazy, he knew when I wanted to cancel our sessions, but he also knew how to motive me. “Everyone you have ever known will be looking at your back, make it strong and stand up straight,” he said. With every lat pull-down I pictured myself in my dress. It worked!

Over 5 years, and a 2-year-old later, My husband just learned the term “muffin-top.” Another apt analogy…back to the gym! You never know when you’ll need the help again.

Let yourself become an After. Let your resume become an After.

Keep at it. You may not feel motivated to do anything after a break-up, a layoff or a realization that your bonus is anything but. Find the coach that is right for you. Once you get over the initial muscle fatigue you will be in better shape and will be better positioned to find the one you want. The One. The job, the boyfriend … and we’re back where we started; networking and job hunting are like dating.