Balancing ambition and ambiguity: the role of proactive decision-making in career development

Purpose This study examines the influence of proactive decision-making (PDM) and work-life conflict (WLC) on career decision-making ambiguity (CDMA) among employed adults in Kazakhstan. It aims to highlight the dual roles of individual agency and external stressors in shaping career clarity. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 401 employed adults and analyzed using correlation, regression, and structural equation modeling (SEM). The analysis evaluated the direct effects of PDM and WLC on CDMA and assessed potential moderating effects of demographic factors such as gender and age. Findings Proactive decision-making, characterized by behaviors like systematic information-seeking and striving for improvement, significantly reduces CDMA. In contrast, both work-to-life and life-to-work conflict exacerbate CDMA, demonstrating the adverse effects of external stressors on career clarity. Gender and age were not found to moderate these relationships. These findings contribute to career development theory by illustrating how proactive behaviors buffer against the negative impacts of work-life conflict on career decision-making. Originality/value This study provides empirical evidence from a transitional economy, shedding light on the unique challenges faced by employees in navigating career decisions. It emphasizes the importance of integrating individual and contextual factors into career development frameworks and offers practical recommendations for organizations and policymakers to enhance career clarity through proactive strategies and supportive work-life balance initiatives.