Should I quit my job to follow my passion?

Chances are you are feeling pretty stressed right now. Working in a job that isn’t aligned with your values, strengths or interests — or where your contribution isn’t appreciated — is disheartening. You might even be starting to feel physical symptoms, like headaches, digestive complaints or fatigue, as your body rebels against working in an environment that no longer fits who you are or want to be.

At the same time, you’re conscious that this job pays your bills. And doesn’t it embody everything and everyone you know? After all, you’ve spent your whole career working towards this point, building a formidable skillset and network. Wouldn’t it be irresponsible to give all of this up for something as flimsy as your ‘passion’?

NO! It’s never irresponsible to listen to your intuition. Feelings are your body’s way of signalling when something important is happening to you. They are literally chemical cocktails designed to help you move towards healthy choices that promote your wellbeing.

If you are feeling stressed or dissatisfied in your current job — especially to the point where you are considering quitting — this isn’t something to dismiss.

Rather, it’s a sign for you to take a closer look at what’s going on. You can ask yourself:

  • What is happening at work that’s so unpalatable to you?

  • What do you find yourself drawn to?

  • If you make the change you desire, what will it give you?

These powerful questions can help you build a foundation of self-awareness, which is your starting point for making wise decisions in life.

If you’d like impartial support as you work through this important decision, get in touch. Working with a coach is a great way to clarify what’s working in your current job and what’s not; paint the bigger picture and finer details of your passion; and plan changes that facilitate a happy, healthy and financially stable career.