Should I Stay or Should I Go? Renewing Vows with Your Work

As a career coach and experienced global human resources executive, I’ve observed that many clients initially seek my services with the intention of making a career change.

However, once they gain a deeper understanding of their drivers and motivators, they often renew their commitment to their current roles. Knowing their talents, mapping their values, understanding the impact they want to make, and, most importantly, considering other areas of life beyond work are essential for a rewarding career.?

True professional fulfillment often comes from deep self-awareness regarding values, strengths, and what role work plays in your overall life. Knowing the patterns of your relationship with work can give you clues about whether the issue lies with your current employer or if it’s a broader dissatisfaction.?

Good news: we are free to make choices.?

Bad news: we are free to make choices.?

With all this freedom in our hands, it's easy to feel like we're constantly chasing the next big opportunity or the perfect dream job. Job market also appears attractive and their lawn always looks greener… We may find ourselves dissatisfied with our current roles, constantly comparing ourselves to our peers, or feeling like we're not living up to our full potential.?

Before taking the leap to a new adventure, stop and think about these five strategies to reevaluate and reconnect with your current job. Assess the overall situation and all opportunities available for you. Maybe you discover a way to give a new meaning to your relationship with work.?

Shifting Focus from the Desired Future to the Present Moment

One of the key challenges in finding joy in your current job is the tendency to constantly focus on the future and the "greener pastures" that may lie ahead. It's easy to get caught up in the cycle of always wanting something more, whether it's a higher salary, a more prestigious title, or a more exciting work environment.

However, by shifting your focus from the desired future to the present moment, you can cultivate a greater sense of appreciation and engagement with your current role.?

The question here is: how is this role contributing to the path for my desired future?

This might involve taking the time to reflect on the positive impact you're already making, the skills and knowledge you're acquiring, or the relationships you're building with your colleagues.

By learning to find joy in the present moment, you can not only enhance your overall well-being but also position yourself for long-term career success.

Recognizing Your Talents and Strengths

One of the first steps in finding joy in your current job is to take the time to reflect on your unique talents and strengths. What are the skills and abilities that you excel at? What tasks or responsibilities do you find the most fulfilling and energizing? By identifying and embracing these core competencies, you can begin to shift your focus from the perceived shortcomings of your current role to the ways in which you can truly thrive and make a meaningful contribution.

For example, perhaps you excel at problem-solving and analytical thinking. Rather than lamenting the fact that your current job doesn't offer enough opportunities to showcase these skills, you can proactively seek out projects or initiatives that allow you to leverage your strengths and make a tangible impact.?

Joining Meaningful Projects and Initiatives

Another key to finding joy in your current job is to actively seek out opportunities to contribute to meaningful projects and initiatives. Whether it's volunteering for a cross-functional team, taking on a leadership role in a professional organization, or spearheading a new internal process improvement, engaging in work that aligns with your values, talents and interests can help reignite your passion and enthusiasm.

When we feel like our work is making a genuine difference, whether it's in the lives of our colleagues, our customers, or our broader community, it can help us to transcend the day-to-day grind and find a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.?

Building and Nurturing Professional Contacts

By actively engaging with colleagues, industry peers, and mentors, we can gain valuable insights, access new opportunities, and develop a sense of community and belonging within our chosen field.

Whether it's attending industry events, participating in online forums, or simply reaching out to connect with like-minded professionals, investing in your network can open the door to new perspectives, collaborations, and even potential career paths that you may not have previously considered.?

Cultivating meaningful connections, help you expand your horizons and also find a greater sense of support and camaraderie in your current role.

Investing in Training and Personal Development

Investing in your own personal and professional development can be a powerful way to find joy and fulfillment in your current job and in your life. This might involve investing in a coaching or mentoring program, enrolling in online courses, attending industry conferences, or even pursuing a new degree or certification.

By dedicating time and resources to your own development, you're not only investing in your future but also demonstrating a commitment to your craft that can inspire and motivate those around you. As a result, you can experience a greater sense of personal growth and accomplishment, approaching your job with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

When to leave? Preparing for Future Career Steps?

While it's important to maintain a focus on the present moment and find joy in your current job, it's also crucial to keep an eye on your long-term career goals and aspirations. By proactively preparing for future steps, you can ensure that you're constantly learning, growing, and positioning yourself for success, even as you remain engaged and fulfilled in your current role.

If the time to leave has come, and if you followed the previous steps, your toolbox will be filled with resources and possibilities to implement the next step of your career.?

Deciding to leave a job can be a difficult decision, but understanding your non-negotiables can be a good way to make a decision. Here are three common signs that it might be time to consider moving on:

1. Persistent Lack of Growth or Challenge

If you no longer feel challenged or are not learning new skills, it may be a sign that you've outgrown your role. A stagnant career can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction over time.

2. Toxic Work Environment

A toxic workplace characterized by poor management, lack of respect, constant stress, or unhealthy relationships can significantly impact your well-being. If attempts to improve the situation have failed, it might be time to move on.

3. Misalignment with Values or Goals

If your job no longer aligns with your personal values, long-term goals, or passions, it can lead to a feeling of disconnection. When your work feels out of sync with who you are or where you want to go, it may be time to explore other opportunities.

Whether your decision is to stay, go, or figure this out, start your journey today by reflecting on your strengths, investing in your self-development, exploring new opportunities, and nurturing meaningful connections.

Remember, the path to fulfillment is not always a straight line, but by staying committed to your own growth, you can unlock a new level of satisfaction and success in your work and life.

Let’s continue this conversation!