What makes you decide to stay or resign from your current job? Money? Promotion? Have you considered your personal goals?
Monday starts and you get to work.
You start your week full of energy and desire to complete what you set out to do. Or maybe, not really in the mood to start the week right as you dread that presentation you have been preparing for the week before.
Maybe you are excited to go to the office because your company is having an event that week that you like. Or maybe you want to call in sick and let your colleagues handle the workload and stress.
You have been doing this line of work for years now. You have been promoted and received awards over the course of your career. Or maybe you have not gained the appreciation or promotion you’ve been eyeing for. And that is why you are now thinking of quitting and joining a different company.
What makes you stay with your current company?
I read a post on LinkedIn about certain factors we should consider when we are thinking of staying or leaving our current company. Some are as follows:
- Compensation. Are you being paid fairly? Well, we work to get paid so we get to experience the quality of life we want.
- Growth. Is there enough training and potential career progression? True. Of course, most do not want to get stuck where they are now. Most want to get promoted.
- Relationship. Are you being treated as a human being? No dispute there. While we are all resources of a business, no one can deny that for us to continue, relationships and a sense of belongingness must be present.
These are just three of them though, this should sum up what it was saying.
And I have a slightly different take.
Are you able to achieve your personal goals by staying?
This is the only question that we need to answer when we are trying to decide if we are staying or leaving our companies. Our personal lives are our accountability and responsibility, no denying that. If we put that as our second priority, then we will have happy and fulfilled lives.
If you get a big salary and from this, you are able to enjoy what life has to offer, good for you. However, if in exchange for that money is a huge amount of your health is taken (lack of sleep, stress, etc.), then, you will not be able to enjoy life no matter how much money you have.
If you get those training, seminars, and eventually promotions and maybe awards, good for you. However, if it required much time from you away from people you would rather spend time with (family, friends, or by yourself), then those small wins could not amount to the big loss you had.
Now, these may all be the ones that are important to you. These may be your personal goals. These are what you are striving for. These are what you want to achieve. And if that is the case, go for it. You do you.
However, when deciding to stay or leave, it is not a matter of what the company has and what the other company is offering.
Moreover, our work is a means for us to generate income. That is the very purpose of it. The foremost. Other things we get are just icing on the cake.
So, think very carefully when you are at this crossroads because whatever happens, you might forget what is important to you and what is it that you really value.
When faced with the decision to stay at your current job or move on to a new opportunity, it’s essential to look beyond the surface-level offerings of each company. While salary, benefits, and perks are important, they are not the sole factors that should influence your decision. Work is indeed a means to generate income, and financial stability is a significant aspect of our lives. However, it’s not the only thing that matters.
Evaluating the Whole Picture
It’s crucial to evaluate the whole picture when considering a job change. This includes reflecting on your career goals, personal values, and the kind of life you want to lead. A job is more than just a paycheck; it’s where you spend a considerable portion of your time and energy. It’s a place where you can grow, learn, and contribute to something larger than yourself.
Income and Beyond
While income is the primary reason we work, it’s not the only reward. Job satisfaction, work-life balance, personal growth, and fulfillment are also critical. These intangible benefits can significantly impact your overall happiness and well-being. They are the “icing on the cake” that can make a job truly rewarding.
Aligning with Values
When contemplating a job change, consider how well the company’s culture aligns with your values. Do they support the things you care about, like sustainability, diversity, or innovation? Are you proud to be associated with the company’s brand and mission? Working for an organization that resonates with your beliefs can be incredibly fulfilling.
Career Progression
Think about your long-term career progression. Does your current job offer opportunities for advancement? Will the new opportunity challenge you and help you develop new skills? Sometimes, a role that offers a lower salary initially might provide a better trajectory for growth and future earnings.
The Importance of Colleagues
Consider the people you work with. Colleagues can become lifelong friends and mentors who support you both professionally and personally. A supportive and collaborative work environment can be just as valuable as a higher salary at another company.
Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance is another critical factor. A job that allows you to have time for family, hobbies, and rest is invaluable. No amount of money can compensate for a job that leaves you with no time or energy for the things you love outside of work.
Making the Decision
When you’re at this crossroads, take the time to think carefully. Weigh the pros and cons, not just in terms of financial gain but also in terms of personal satisfaction and growth. It’s easy to be swayed by a higher salary or a prestigious title, but if these come at the cost of your values or happiness, they might not be worth it.
Remembering What’s Important
It’s essential to remember what’s important to you. What do you value most in life? Is it creativity, autonomy, making a difference, or having time for family? Your job should support and enhance these values, not detract from them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decision to stay or leave a job is multifaceted. It’s not just about what the company has or what another company is offering. It’s about what the job means for your life as a whole. Consider all aspects of the role and how it fits into your larger life goals. By doing so, you’ll make a choice that supports not only your financial needs but also your personal values and aspirations. Remember, the best job is not just the one that pays the most but the one that enriches your life in the most meaningful ways.
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