The Core Files: Peering Over the Edge & Grieving Workplace Change

Work life is full of change. Some are those changes we view as inevitable — while others seem to fly at us out of nowhere. Yet, whether or not we have pondered a similar event and even begun the preparations, the fallout can be significant. How effectively we process these shifts, both internally and externally, is often the key to moving forward. In fact, that process can help us dissect the matter down to its true core; that point from which the pain emanates and helps to build a plan.

The scenarios of a career shifts are endless. Consider Lisa's story for example. After working for years as an assistant in an established medical practice, one of its namesakes suddenly made the decision to retire early. She was particularly attached to this individual, one who helped define both her path & purpose. As she explained, the relationship was so central to her world of work that she was grieving that loss. Thoughts of "If I choose to leave, what would I do next?" and "Can this new situation sustain me?", weighed heavy on her mind.

Over the years, I've witnessed other "core shaking" stories that may resonate with you. Most have helped me to realize that work life is a delicately mixed cocktail, which sometimes requires a deliberate recognition of its non-negotiable ingredients. These ingredients not only affect work life narratives, but the psychological contracts that support our careers.

Ultimately, change often shifts this delicate balance, but know that it is possible to adjust. However, this potential may not always be enough to fully mend that breech. (Of course, staying or leaving always demands that we consider our physical well-being/responsibilities and a new path can unfold carefully over time.)

Here are a few observations, with key questions to ask yourself for each.

• The Edge. This is the scenario where a job is not likely ideal, but one strong, compelling element (perk, location, flexibility) has stopped a contributor from re-evaluating and moving on. As such, the change acutely forces the "decision moment", that has likely operated for some time. Question: Do you explain away work life issues thinking this way: Will at least working here has this ______ ? An individual may have avoided moving on for fear of an even less fulfilling scenario, but the scales have finally tipped.
• The Glue. As with Lisa, a central figure often provides much of the strength of the everyday fabric of work life. When that individual departs, the entire fabric of work life changes in texture. Question: Do other elements/attributes stand a chance to make up for the shortfall? For example: your clients, the content of the work, etc. Know that you may actually adjust fully in time, if you allow the situation to unfold fully.
• The Framework. Organizations are forever evolving. Yet, in some cases the structure or purpose shifts significantly. These types of changes can pose serious issues for many, especially where alignment is concerned. It is possible that you see the changes as positive over time. But it is also possible, that you and your place of employment are meant to part ways. Question: Will the change/shift slowly (but surely) drain your work life soul? Know that if the answer is yes, this cost is often quite high longer-term.

If you have a story to share, please do so in comments. As always, thank you for reading.

Marla Gottschalk is an I/O Psychologist who explores core stability and the dynamic nature of work life. A charter member of the LinkedIn Influencer Program, her practice helps people, teams & organizations build stronger work life foundations through the practice of core stability. Her thoughts on work life have also appeared at the Harvard Business Review, Forbes, BBC Work Life, Quartz and The Huffington Post