Should I quit my job?

The power of realisation is a pivotal moment for most. You need to acknowledge there is a problem then recognise that it is within your power to change it. At the risk of sounding like a political slogan ladies, you can take back control of your life.

Reasons why people don’t quit their job

●     Steady income

●     Security

●     Fear

●     Lack of confidence

●     Risk averse

●     Economic and financial reasons

The above is not an exhaustive list but it tends to cover the main reasons why people stay in a job when they’re unhappy and in fairness they’re not to be sniffed at. In uncertain economic times it’s understandable that many feel fortunate to be in employment especially if you are a woman in a flexible part time role. That said, the internal conversation of “I’m lucky to have a job” tends to then allow for situations to continue which no longer serve you. Yes of course we should be grateful for a steady income and a roof over our heads but this actually provides you a position of security to explore what is out there. No one has to know that you are considering quitting your job and there is nothing wrong with tentatively exploring what other options might be available to you.

Fears

This is the enemy of most people in any decision-making in life. Even though we instinctively know something is wrong we still stop ourselves from making a change by listening to the internal voices:

“What if I’m not qualified enough?”

“What if I’m not good enough?”

“I’m too old to make a change, I’m too young to be taken seriously.”

This is all limiting self talk that is rooted in fear and stops us from achieving and making a move that deep down we know is the right thing to do. If you’re asking yourself these questions, then you are already in a decision making dialogue with yourself.

Should I quit my job if I’m unhappy?

Ask yourself how you would answer that question if your friend said it to you or a member of your family. The chances are you would say to them yes absolutely, why would you continue doing something that makes you miserable? It’s important therefore that we afford ourselves the same level of care and opportunity that we would advise a loved one. You are important and what makes you happy is absolutely central.

How to get empowered if your job makes you unhappy

The good news is that you are not a tree, you can move. If you find your current job physically, mentally and emotionally draining then you owe it to yourself to be happy in your work. There are lots of options now for women in business to start to make positive changes that empower them to make a career change. What is it that is stopping you from quitting? A lack of confidence, fear about change or the interview process? Perhaps you need to really audit your own capabilities and recognise that you have so much to offer.