The position or organization we are currently in, might be exactly where we are needed. As different aspects of the landscape change, we may no longer be the right fit for the organization or even more importantly the organization might no longer be the right fit for us. This could be because of where we are in our life, what business challenges or changes are occurring or the team dynamic / skill set. At some point, it may be time to make a change. That can be changing how you are approaching the position, how you are putting your energy toward it or the position itself.
Where we see people struggle is in knowing when it is time to go. It almost seems like things have to swell to such a difficult place that it almost pushes the person out. Over this two part blog, I want to offer some ways for people, on an individual level, to gain awareness around whether it is time to leave. In addition, to suggest to those who are around someone that is in that position, how they might best approach this uncomfortable situation from a place of respect and caring.
Let’s start with the individual. How do you know when it is time to make a change in your approach or leave the organization? Here are some things to consider:
1. What does your body tell you? Often we don’t consciously know that things are off track but our body certainly does! Physical signs are often the first indicator that something isn’t right. Take a moment to consider the following:
• What is your energy level? If you are physically exhausted or drained and all other factors such as eating, sleeping and exercise are where they should be – take note of what is taking your energy. How depleted are you after the work week? Are you feeling depleted on a regular basis?
• Do I have any physical problems? i.e.: stomach issues, unable to sleep, tightness in your chest, grinding your teeth, overeating or back pain. If you do feel any of these symptoms, it might be because you are stressed within the work but trying to cover it up. Obviously, these could be from a medical condition (please check with your doctor on that) but it is also worth exploring whether your level of stress or not feeling like you are doing purposeful work could be causing these problems. Your body could be trying to tell you something. Stop, look and address what is coming up for you!
2. When we are passionate about something, it makes us feel alive. It maps to our strongest values and our life purpose. Although values and purpose remain rather consistent over time, they can shift depending on the stage of our life. For example, at one point, I only wanted to work with individuals on helping them find the right path for them. Now I have expanded that to work with individuals and teams because I can have a greater impact on the business community by assisting the whole instead of one part. In order to do, that I had to make a change in the focus of my practice and increase my skill sets.
Sometimes we don’t notice that the passion for the work has gone away because it happens gradually over time. Ask yourself if you are still passionate about at least two of the following?
• The Mission
• The Type of Work You Are Doing
• The People You Work With
3. How is the system reacting to you? We often see the team pushing back on someone. This could be because the person is not what the team needs or that the person is disengaged. If you find that what you are doing within a group is falling flat or that they are coming against you, it may be that the system is pushing for change.
4. Are you bored? At some point, you likely will have mastered the work you are doing. There may still be challenges, but if you aren’t feeling challenged it might just be that you are needing to step it up or into something that is out of your comfort zone.
The key in all of this is noticing that a change is needed. That change might not be leaving the organization – it could be addressing any of the above. Examples might be:
• Taking a much needed break.
• Figuring out how to be more appreciated.
• Removing particular problems or people that are causing strife.
• Increasing a skillset
• Changing your mindset or even switching your position within the organization.
Try addressing these items first and if you are still feeling your answers aren’t up to par -then seriously ask yourself “Is it time for me to leave?”
When have you been in this situation? What did you do? What do you wish you had done differently?