I want to talk to you about roots- YOUR roots.

We as humans lay down roots in homes, work, church, and with our families and friends. We invest our time, money and energy into people and things we love and care about. As 2020 came to a close, we saw more and more professionals ‘dig up’ their roots professionally and move to another employer- I bet it took some courage, time and effort to do it too.

It took some hard conversations at the dinner table, rewiring a family budget, and even making necessary sacrifices to change their futures. We are seeing so many professionals leave their jobs, that I recently posted about how 4.3 million people ‘dug up’ and left their jobs and re-planted somewhere else.

We just moved and one day I went shopping to find plants and flowers that would look nice for my front entrance. I am not a natural green thumb - I am known to overwater plants, not give them enough light or attention- you get the picture. But it is a new house, so I am trying to turn a new leaf! (ok but I couldn’t help the funny pun lol).

My neighbors’ lawn is pristine and perfect- right out of a Home and Garden magazine. ?It has the perfect green plush lawn and is filled with colorful flowers- not one is out of place. Naturally – I went over and inquired what flowers she owned so I could try and mimic what she has done.

She told me it took a lot of effort, time, and money for her to create the front area of her house the way she wanted it to be. Actually, she told me it took years for the yard and the plants to grow how they appear now. She invested and put down literal roots and took care of them well-they now prosper.

I asked her to come look at my lawn and see if she knew what some of the plants might be. I told her I may remove some entirely since I didn’t know what to do with them and for some reason her answer stuck with me.

?She said ‘you can just take them out and replant them somewhere else in your yard’. I never gave that idea any thought even thought it could change the entire look of the yard. This conversation with my neighbor had me thinking about roots- an employees’ roots specifically and how professionals across the country are digging up their root and taking their energy and time elsewhere.

For companies, I think this is a great opportunity for self-awareness and raises 2 important questions.

1) Why would someone want to put down roots and join your company?

2) What do we do as a company that would make someone want to take all of the effort do dig up their roots and go somewhere else?

For professionals, I want to let you know something. You CAN dig up your roots and go. It will take time, money, and a sacrifice. You may even need a professional planter (mentor) to help you find your way to new soil. It won’t be easy, but it just might be worth it. ?You may even decide to go back to your old soil- that is OK too. ?There has never been a better time to look at all of the companies out there and see what the world has to offer. It is a candidate’s market and the time is now for you. I see you with your shovel looking to find new ground and I am cheering you on.

For those of you who are deeply rooted in your company and you love your role and you found your stride- I see you too, and I bet your co-workers are so lucky to have you. You are guiding the next generation at your company and your company will be stronger for it. ?

I am headed back to start digging up my roots too and find a new place for them in the yard, literally. ?? ?Reach out to me if you need help with your shovel!

-Jenn?