Exploring Career Options - Should You Stay or Should You Go?

Many of us have been there: dreading Mondays, counting down the minutes until 5 p.m., and working out of financial necessity, not out of a passion or because the work makes you feel fulfilled in some way.

You might even be applying for other jobs secretly during your lunch break. 

If this sounds familiar, you’ve probably repeatedly asked yourself: Should I stay in my current job or is it time to move on to something else?

What's Making You Unhappy? 🤔

Let's figure out why you're feeling this way. Take some time to reflect and answer these questions honestly:

☑ What are the specific things about your job that you dislike? Is it your boss, your coworkers, the tasks you do, or something else?

☑ Do you feel bored or unchallenged? Are you not learning or growing in your role?

☑ Does your job align with your personal values and interests? Does it feel meaningful to you?

☑ What are your biggest frustrations at work? What triggers those feelings?

☑ When was the last time you felt genuinely excited about your job? What was different then?

Should You Stay or Should You Go? 😫

Now that you've identified your reasons for wanting to leave, let's explore your options, ask yourself these questions to get closer to the answer to the main question of whether you should stay or leave your job:

1. Can the issues you're facing be resolved within your current company? Is there a possibility for a different role, team, or project?

2. Have you discussed your concerns with your manager or HR? What was their response?

3. If you were to stay, what specific changes would need to happen for you to feel more satisfied and engaged?

4. Are there any professional development opportunities within your company that could reignite your interest in your work?

5. If you were to leave, what type of work environment would you thrive in? (e.g., collaborative, independent, fast-paced, creative)

6. What kind of company culture aligns with your values and personality? (e.g., supportive, innovative, competitive, family-oriented)

7. What are your must-haves in a job? (e.g., flexible hours, remote work, specific benefits, clear career path)

8. What are your dealbreakers in a job? (e.g., long commute, micromanagement, lack of work-life balance)

9. What are your salary expectations? Are you willing to take a pay cut for a more fulfilling role?

10. What are your career goals? Does your current job align with your long-term aspirations?

11. How would leaving your job impact your finances and personal life? Are you prepared for any potential challenges?

12. What are the risks and rewards of staying versus leaving? What are you most afraid of in each scenario?

13. When you think about your ideal workday, what does it look like? What tasks energize you?

14. How does your body react when you think about staying in your current job? What about when you think about leaving?

15. What advice would you give to a friend in a similar situation? What does your gut instinct tell you to do?

Take your time to answer these questions honestly and thoughtfully. Reflect on your responses and consider discussing them with a trusted friend, family member, or career coach.

What Now? Charting Your Next Steps

So, you've wrestled with the questions, reflected on your feelings, and perhaps even discussed your situation with others. Now comes the time for action.

Here's what you can do next, based on your decision: 

If you've decided to stay:

1. Speak Up: Have an honest conversation with your manager. Share your concerns and discuss potential solutions, such as:

• Taking on new projects or responsibilities that align with your interests.
• Seeking professional development opportunities to gain new skills or knowledge.
• Adjusting your workload or schedule to better manage stress and burnout.
• Exploring a transfer to a different team or department within the company.  

2. Set Boundaries: Learn to say "no" to tasks that don't align with your goals or drain your energy. Protect your time and prioritize tasks that contribute to your growth and satisfaction.

3. Seek Support: Connect with a mentor or career coach. They can offer guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your career path.

4. Reignite Your Passion: Find ways to bring joy and meaning back into your work. This could involve joining a professional association, volunteering for a cause you care about, or taking on a side project that sparks your creativity.

If you've decided to go:

1. Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile: Make sure your resume and online presence showcase your skills and experience in the best light.

2. Network: Reach out to your professional network and let people know you're looking for new opportunities. Attend industry events, connect with recruiters, and leverage online platforms like LinkedIn.

3. Research: Thoroughly research companies and roles that align with your interests and values. Look for companies with positive workplace cultures and opportunities for growth.

4. Skill Up: If you need to acquire new skills or certifications for your desired field, start taking courses or workshops to bridge the gap.

5. Prepare for Interviews: Practice your interviewing skills and prepare thoughtful questions to ask potential employers.

Remember, this is your journey. It's okay to feel uncertain or scared but don't let fear hold you back from making a decision that will ultimately improve your life. The next chapter of your career awaits.

P.S. Need more help with decision-making and your next steps? Let's chat!

I offer a free 20-minute consultation to answer your questions and discuss how my services can help you achieve your goals. Book your consultation using this link.