What did I learn, after I quit my job?

I walked out of my office and into the unknown with no plans for the next job/assignment.

My intention since the start had been to create a more open Culture in the organization that I am associated with, which has opportunities for all employees to grow and to be heard along with the fact that I have time to spend with family.

So what have I learned, since I quit my job?

1. Life on the other side is not as difficult as you think

As I looked out at the world from the comfort of a steady job, the fear of leaving that security behind was almost paralyzing. Once I had quit my job and my perspective shifted to one of zero salary, 100% possibilities, that fear all but disappeared.

I felt empowered and excited by my ability to make things happen, and I armed myself with information about freelancing and consulting by talking to people who had set up their own businesses.

I also realized that the security I had felt in my previous job was a complete illusion: people get fired, departments get restructured, companies shut down. Don’t let fear of the unknown keep you in a job that makes you unhappy.

2. Your instinct is your guide

You might not trust your instinct fully, but it can guide in many ways.

Each time I reaffirm my decision to leave that time behind and move on, I come out that bit stronger and more determined to stick with my current situation and new way of life. Instead of looking to other people for reassurance and confirmation that you are taking the right decision, you know what is right for you. So once you’ve made that decision, run with it, trust your instincts, and don’t look back.

3. There are more options than you ever thought possible

In my previous job, I was surrounded by people with the same academic background and with the same ambitions of salary increases and promotions. We were all comfortable within that world and unsure of what lay beyond.

As soon as I had left, though, I encountered people with diverse backgrounds, with much broader ambitions, and with altogether different priorities. Traveling in particular allows you to meet people with all kinds of plans, and lack of plans, and this is both reassuring and inspiring.

Open your eyes, and your heart, to the different ways of life that are out there and you may be surprised at the possibilities that are open to you.

4. You can easily live on less money than you think

With a monthly salary flowing into my bank account, I was buying clothes I didn’t need, taking taxis, and going out with no thought of the future. Being ‘unemployed,’ I became more prudent: I bought fewer clothes, I walked more, I canceled premium subscriptions — and I didn’t feel at all sorry for myself.

It’s quite painless to cut down on little luxuries, and having some buffer of savings which will give you added security and confidence to pursue your plans. The danger is actually the opposite: Once the money starts flowing in again, it’s easy to upgrade your spending habits to previous levels.

So focus on the true necessities, and then spend the extra on experiences — travel, friends, family — rather than buying material things that will only clutter up your life. And, yes, do think about saving and investing for a rainy day …

5. New opportunities will appear from nowhere

I had thoughts of travel, starting a consultancy, taking a year off ‘to write,’ taking another full-time job in a location outside or non-profit organization.

Since leaving, I got involved in various things where, I run workshops for Management Universities, I worked on exciting projects with start-ups, and done interviews for leadership hires at companies. None of these things were even on my radar while I was in my old job.

I’ve also become aware of, and grateful for, an amazing network of people who are eager to make mutually beneficial connections and collaborations. So talk to friends and to strangers, go to networking events, and above all remain open to unanticipated opportunities from unexpected directions.

6. It doesn’t have to be perfect from day one

I was always looking for the ideal job, in the ideal location, in the ideal industry — but this fantasy doesn’t exist. It is a MYTH!

I don’t expect to be a world thought leader and best-selling author living in my dream home by next week; but with each experience, each post, I’m shaping the life that I want to live. As long as you’re progressing in the right direction, a step or two closer to where you want to be, then consider it a good move.

7. Nothing is forever

It seemed like a huge decision to quit my job. I’ve realized, that the worst thing that can happen, in the event of being unsuccessful in getting back to a full-time job again soon is the stress and the sense of insecurity. It is phase and new opportunities will come through, as this phase also is not forever and shall pass by.

8. You are not alone

It’s easy to feel like you’re the only one in this situation. Trust me you have more people like you than you ever imagined. They all faced their own fears and challenges, and some have returned to the corporate world in some form or other, but not one of them regrets their move.

It’s up to you to find your own way, but there are millions out there who are with you in spirit.

9. You’ll never have all the answers

Possibly the biggest challenge has been finding the best way to balance the income with your expenses during your time off. It is not perfect from day 1, but I’m learning! Don’t wait for the point when you have the perfect plan and you’ve answered every possible question cos there is never going to be 100% certainty. There will always be some risk — but that’s OK!

10. Not all who wander are lost

Life doesn’t have to be about finding a job alone. It is hard to watch “everyone” around you settling down; but it is okay as all of us have a different path and will get our destination when time comes. During this time if you are exploring new things and wandering around, that doesn’t mean you are lost.

Life doesn’t have an end-point, let it be an endless journey of discovery and continuous learning.