Discussing Life Changes
It's time for a change
You work every day, day after day. And while you may be doing the best you can, you just aren't finding the fulfillment in your work that you feel you should. Is it you? Maybe. Is it the job? Maybe, again. The truth is, it probably doesn't matter. If you feel the place you're working at isn't a good match and doesn't help you achieve your professional and personal goals, you're probably going to be miserable. It could be time for a change.
Deciding that it's the right time for a change can be the easy part. Sharing this new mind-set with your family can be an entirely different matter. They may count on you for, at the very least, a consistent lifestyle. Change often brings doubt, fear, excitement and a sense of new possibilities—all at once. Talking to your family as soon as possible that a job change may be on the way will help all of you work toward adjusting to your new situation.
Here are some tips to get things started:
- Explain yourself. It's your life. You deserve to strive for personal and professional happiness. On the other hand, you have responsibilities. Personal satisfaction and handling your responsibilities don't always stack up nicely against each other. Tell your family how you feel and why. Tell them what you’d like in a change and what your plan is.
- Ask for their input. Ask your friends and family for their thoughts and opinions on how to proceed. What do they expect from you? Are there some things they simply can't change?
- Answer questions. Major changes are likely to trigger major questions. Some may deal with logistics, such as whether you have another job lined up. Others may surprise you and may be more personal, like questioning other things you may or may not be happy with. Speak openly and honestly. Try not to dismiss their questions, for they show concern both for themselves and for you.
- Listen. While you may be ready for a change, the others you live with may not be. They need the opportunity to speak and you need to be able to tell the difference between some resistance to change, and an honest inability to change with you.
Your role as provider shouldn't feel like a trap. You should be able to pursue your personal and professional interests, while keeping a focus on those you’re responsible for. The only way to move toward what you want and away from what you feel may be holding you back is to start talking about it with those closest to you, and then doing something about it.
This article is provided for general, informational purposes only and is not intended as advice specific to your situation.
