Leaving a job you love can be a difficult and emotional experience. Laura Thain, Director and Principal of Optimise Talent Coaching, notes that it’s a time when you may feel lost, as your job is a key part of your identity.
The process of leaving a job can uncover a range of complex emotions, like grief, anger, or relief. When you’re particularly fond of your job, it can make the experience of leaving even more difficult.
Our jobs are a big part of our identity, and we grow attached to where we work, regardless of whether we find it challenging or enjoyable. This attachment can make it hard to leave, even when we know it’s time to move on.
For those who are not leaving by choice, the experience can be even harder to accept, and it can be a blow to their self-esteem. Either way, it’s okay to mourn the routine, the people, and the work itself.
Laura Thain highlights the importance of processing what happened and keeping up your routines, rather than wallowing. They emphasize that gaining feedback and reassessing are essential during this time.
Laura Thain says, “It’s all too easy to think you don’t have time and money for things like the gym, socialising, and self-care, but they can make you feel your best self mentally and physically and allow you to stay confident right when you need it most.”
Fear is a natural part of leaving a job, but it shouldn’t be a roadblock. Instead, try to view it as an opportunity to expand your resume, networks, skillset, and perspective, such as going on a tour to discover new experiences.
Maintaining connections with your bosses, managers, and coworkers can have a range of positives, including glowing recommendations from past employers. It’s also important to nurture and maintain the connections that matter to you, as they can function as both your professional and personal network.
While it’s common to view work friendships as a reason to stay in a role, true friends will remain in your life even after you’ve left the job. They can still provide support and updates on your old workplace.
It may be a challenging experience.
As you consider leaving a job you love, remember that it’s a normal part of career growth and development. It can also be an opportunity for new experiences, people, and opportunities, which can lead to personal and professional growth.