Is It Time For A Career Change? – Tina B's World
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Is It Time For A Career Change?

When you think about what career you want, what are the first things that come to mind?

  • Money?
  • Location?

Uhh.. yeah. Anything else is trivial compared to those two things, right? 

Sometimes, it doesn’t even matter if you actually like the job or not! You’ll take what is presented to you, provided it covers your basic bases. 

Well..

The times, they are a-changing.

People are starting to wake up and realize just how important a work-life balance really is. It’s probably the largest motivating factor in career/job selection, surpassing both salary and location. 

Taking care of your mental health is no longer an option, but a necessity.

I’m not telling you to stop working hard at your job. I’m suggesting that you shouldn’t let it consume you.

Be wary of companies that demand overtime and don’t allow you to rest on your sick days (or are suspicious when you ask for time off).

  • Narrow down your searches to companies that
  • Allow you to have time off (not “on-call”)
  • Have flexible hours
  • Set realistic deadlines (or at the very least: meeting the deadline doesn’t rest squarely on your shoulders as an entry-level applicant)

Excessive stress is harmful to both your physical and mental health. You’ll end up spending all the “extra” money in that bigger paycheck on therapy bills. 

Find an Employer who cares

“Every job I have ever had could not give a flying fork about me as an employee. They demand I be available whenever. They call me at home (or on my cell) with problems. They ask if I can rearrange my schedule all the time. They have even made time changes without bothering to ask or tell me, even though I book appointments and fun things as soon as I get my schedule.” 

Sound familiar?

I HEAR YOU!

Yes, it seems that every job you’ve ever had has treated you as a commodity, even though they insist “we’re a team” (barf). 

Remember: that’s every job you ever HAD.

A growing number of employers out there are finally acknowledging that happy employees are more productive. They don’t just show employees that they are allowed to focus on self-care while still getting their work done, they are encouraged to do so.  

Taking the leap to a new job or different career can be a daunting task, but imagine how much better it will be. Live in the moment and feel the stress, but take a minute to acknowledge that this stress you’re feeling is temporary. 

In the end, you’ll be happier and more balanced.

it shouldn't cost you your sanity

Plainly stated: the pathway to learning about and answering your calling shouldn’t cost you your sanity.

Once you start really examining your life, you’ll finally comprehend what a poor work-life balance puts you through: a hamster wheel of stress that negatively affects both physical and mental health.   

Think of the long-term ramifications of sacrificing your body and mind just for a bigger paycheck.

It might seem worth it to you now, but it certainly won’t do you any favors in the long run.

Don't Let It Go

oil light meme

As funny as this meme is, think about it. 

If you spend too much time at a job that is physically and mentally exhausting, the problems you have that are associated with that job will escalate. 

You might be able to manage for a couple months or years, but just like that oil light, unchecked problems will eventually cause a breakdown. 

You ever had a car die on you in the middle of nowhere? Yup, that happened to me. I learned a valuable lesson that day. Don’t let things slide. 

Mental and physical problems sometimes go hand-in-hand. Stress can do horrible things to your body. According to THIS post on HelpGuide, stress can cause cognitive, behavioral, physical and emotional symptoms. Seriously, check that article out. It’s alarming!

No one wants a life of chronic stress, especially when there are more balance-friendly options out there.

Stuck in a job-after-job cycle because you’re still deciding on your career or ignoring your calling?

Consider a job that will help you establish a good work-life balance OR that has an exceptional perk for you.

Example: Love coffee? Try working at a local coffee shop.

Keep that in mind next time you’re on the job hunt.

work life bundle pic

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