I should have been back to school today.
Instead, I'm holding on to one last week before I start my new job. Today was a little rough. But I've spent some time talking to friends and reflecting on the new normal for me.
One of the hardest decisions we face in our careers is know when it's time to move on. We tell ourselves to be grateful for what we have, to wait things out, to not "rock the boat." But deep down, you know when something isn't right. And, if you've been feeling undervalued, overlooked, or taken advantage of, it might be time to listen to that inner voice, like I did, and choose a new path.
Work should challenge you, inspire you, help you grow- not drain you or make you question your worth. Too often, people stay in jobs where they're treated unfairly because, like me, they think their loyalty will pay off. I kept thinking maybe if I did a good job, I might get a "real" position one day. But here's the truth: if your potential isn't being seen, no amount of loyalty will suddenly change that. I learned that the hard way when I didn't even get an interview for said "real position." When I asked about the possibility of my then current position being absorbed as a job within the school system, one where it wasn't a probationary, year by year situation, I was simply told that it was never going to happen. You deserve to be in a place where your talents are recognized and appreciated. Not a place where nepotism rears its ugly head time and time again and you're forced to just smile and nod with acceptance.
Trusting your gut isn't about being impulsive- it's about recognizing that your intuition is often the most honest feedback you'll ever get. Your body and mind will be screaming at you and paying attention is key. I knew when I had to start on anti-depressants and anti- anxiety medication for the first time in my life and my hair started falling out by the handful last year that it might be time to rethink my then current career. When the thought of calling off sick scared me more than actually being sick- there was a problem. If you constantly feel overlooked, slighted, and brushed aside or if your workload grows while your pay or recognition doesn't, your gut is telling you something: this isn't it.
A job change can be scary. There's risk, uncertainty, and there's the fear of starting over. For some, it might be worth taking a pay cut for the mental sanity. But what's scarier than starting over or losing income is staying in a place that doesn't value you. The longer you stay, the more it chips away at your confidence and your belief in what you're capable of. I started referring to myself as a peon because that's how I felt. I am a four-year Cum Laude college graduate, national award- winning photographer and small business owner for ten years and I felt like I was the absolute bottom of the barrel.
The hardest part of leaving my job was leaving some of my coworkers. I was lucky enough to be surrounded by several coworkers who did see my value, my talents, and me as person. Those who treated me with respect and love and were there to talk to me, listen to me, and who would accept my advice in return. The coworkers who did not gossip about me, talk negatively behind my back, and those who knew what an asset I was. Those who saw my true potential and were so gracious. Believe me, I know who you are, and I know who wasn't on my team. My struggle has been feeling like I've abandoned them.
Your career is a huge part of your life- and- you only get one life. Don't waste it settling for less than you deserve. When you choose to leave a toxic environment, you're not just walking away from a job. You're choosing yourself. You're choosing growth. You're choosing a future where your potential isn't just noticed but celebrated. You're choosing your mental health.
So, if your gut is whispering that it's time for a change, don't ignore it. Listen. Trust it. And take that next step forward- you might be surprised by how much brighter the road ahead can be. I'm hoping mine shines.