Why I'm Happy Now - Don't Stay in a Job You Don't Love

There comes a time when one must confront the reality of a job that doesn't inspire passion or joy. While the decision to leave a job is often met with hesitation and uncertainty, it can be the transformative catalyst for personal and professional growth.

Recently I announced to the world that I have decided to part ways with Smartsheet. Though it was a tough decision, it was the right decision for me, and one that I made quickly once I took stock of my health, happiness, and development.

Job satisfaction is a two-way street. The company demands your best, and you also have the right to demand the best of your company. Team leadership (or lack thereof), clear and consistent expectation setting, and an understanding the job’s role and responsibility are key to success, and three things that I lacked in my last role.

Ensuring employee satisfaction is critical, and one aspect that I missed in my last role. Many leaders do not spend enough time thinking about how innovation, productivity and growth are intrinsically correlated to employee satisfaction.

The Link Between Job Satisfaction and Employee Retention:

Job satisfaction is the glue that binds employees to their roles and organizations. When individuals find joy, fulfillment, and purpose in their work, they are more likely to stay committed to their current positions. High job satisfaction levels create a sense of loyalty and engagement, reducing the likelihood of employees seeking opportunities elsewhere.

Enhanced Productivity and Performance:

Satisfied employees are inherently more productive. When individuals are content in their roles, they are motivated to give their best effort. This heightened productivity contributes to the overall success of the company, as employees who find satisfaction in their work are more likely to go above and beyond to meet and exceed expectations.

Positive Work Environment and Employee Well-Being:

Job satisfaction is linked to the overall work environment. A positive work culture, supportive management, and a healthy work-life balance are key components of job satisfaction. Companies that prioritize creating a positive and nurturing environment for their employees not only retain talent but also foster a culture of well-being.

Reduced Turnover Costs:

Turnover can be a significant financial burden on organizations. The costs associated with recruitment, onboarding, and training of new employees can be substantial. By prioritizing job satisfaction, companies can mitigate turnover rates, saving both time and resources that would otherwise be spent on replacing departing employees.

Let’s explore some of the most compelling reasons why leaving a job you don't love is not just a choice but a crucial step towards building a career that aligns with your aspirations and values.

Ignite Passion and Purpose:

A job should be more than just a means to an end. It should be a source of passion and purpose that drives you to excel. Leaving a job you don't love opens the door to rediscovering what truly inspires and motivates you. Embracing new opportunities that align with your passions can reignite the fire for your work.

Unlock Yourself:

Stagnation is the enemy of personal and professional growth. Leaving a job that doesn't resonate with you opens the door to new challenges, skills, and experiences. Embracing change is a powerful catalyst for growth, pushing you beyond your comfort zone and unlocking your full potential.

Brain Games:

A job that lacks love and enthusiasm can contribute to stress, dissatisfaction, and even burnout. Your mental and emotional well-being should not be sacrificed for the sake of a paycheck. Leaving a job that doesn't bring you joy is an investment in your overall health and happiness.

Look Over the Horizon:

Clinging to a job you don't love may close the door to exciting new opportunities. Leaving allows you to create space for unexpected possibilities and allows you to be open to a career path that truly aligns with your goals. Embracing change often leads to unforeseen doors opening, presenting new avenues for success.

Leaving a job you don't love is not an admission of failure but a declaration of self-respect and a commitment to personal and professional fulfillment. Embracing change and seeking opportunities that align with your passions and values is a courageous step towards building a career that brings joy, purpose, and lasting satisfaction. Remember, your career is a journey, and leaving a job that doesn't resonate with you is the first step towards a brighter and more fulfilling future.

Inspiring Excellence and Building Trust

The significance of the Trusted Advisor—from the book of the same name—cannot be overstated. Whether you operate as a consultant, mentor, or leader, integrating the qualities of a Trusted Advisor holds the promise of amplifying your impact and influence. This article delves into the heart of being a Trusted Advisor, unveiling the essential qualities and providing guidance to individuals on the path to embracing this role.

Defining the Trusted Advisor Role

A Trusted Advisor is more than just providing good client service or being a colleague; they are a confidant, a guide, and a source of valuable insights and growth. The role involves building deep, trust-based relationships with clients, colleagues, or team members. The foundation of this trust is established through competence, reliability, and integrity.

Essential Traits of a Trusted Advisor

A Trusted Advisor excels in their field, consistently updating their knowledge and skills. Possessing expertise instills confidence in those seeking advice, fostering a higher likelihood of trusting your guidance.

Beyond technical proficiency, a Trusted Advisor comprehends the unique needs and challenges of their clients or team members. Balancing both intellectual and emotional intelligence, empathy is pivotal in building trust, showcasing genuine concern for others' well-being.

Trust is delicate, hard-earned, and easily fractured. A Trusted Advisor upholds consistency in their actions, fulfilling promises, and proving reliable in times of need.

Open communication and honesty form the bedrock of being a Trusted Advisor. Transparency establishes credibility, while integrity ensures that your advice aligns with ethical standards.

Navigating the Path to Being a Trusted Advisor

1. Invest in Relationships: Building trust takes time and effort. Invest in meaningful relationships by actively listening, understanding, and being genuinely interested in others.

2. Continuous Learning: Stay ahead in your field by investing in continuous learning. Whether it's staying updated on industry trends or acquiring new skills, your commitment to improvement reinforces your position as a Trusted Advisor.

3. Demonstrate Results: Actions speak louder than words. Showcase your competence by delivering tangible results. This not only builds confidence but also solidifies your reputation as a reliable advisor.

4. Embrace Feedback: Constructive feedback is a powerful tool for growth. Embrace feedback from clients and colleagues, using it as a tool to refine your approach and enhance your capabilities.

5. Adaptability: Our business landscape is ever-changing. A Trusted Advisor is adaptable and can navigate uncertainties with grace. Flexibility and the ability to pivot when needed are key attributes.

Wrap

Becoming a Trusted Advisor is a journey that requires dedication, self-reflection, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of others. By embodying the key qualities and navigating the path outlined in this blog post, individuals can elevate themselves to a position of trust and influence, fostering lasting and meaningful professional relationships.

Weekend Edition: Adulting is Hard and We All Need a Hug (or a Snack)"

Greetings, fellow humans! You know you've reached peak adulthood when your idea of a wild Friday night is matching your socks and organizing your spice rack (or taking home inventory). But fear not, because we're about to embark on a journey into the whimsical world of self-care. Buckle up and let's laugh our way to a healthier, happier you.

Binge a little: The Olympic Sport We All Deserve

If binge-watching TV series were an Olympic sport, we'd all be gold medalists by now. So go ahead, cancel your plans, throw on those pajamas, and let your inner couch potato shine. But couch potato time doesn’t need to be binge watching shows, it can also include curling up with a book you’re reading, or spending couch time with friends talking, playing board games, or doing something more sophisticated: like finger painting.

Meditation or Napping? The Great Debate

Some people swear by meditation for relaxation; others opt for the power nap. Why not combine the two? Find a comfy spot, close your eyes, focus on your breathing, and accidentally drift off into a glorious nap. It's multitasking at its finest.

When you wake up from your “medinap” make sure you reflect on your ability to quickly disconnect and congratulate yourself, you’ve done something good for your mind, body and soul.

Dance Like No One's Watching

Put on your favorite embarrassing guilty pleasure song and dance like you're auditioning for a Broadway musical. Who cares if you can't dance? The only audience is your pet, and they're probably judging you for not sharing your snack. Turn this into a cardio exercise if you want to, nothing like excellent music and a little endorphin rush.

The Art of Eating Cake for Breakfast

Every now and then we need to indulge in a food fantasy. Try something new, try something old, but make sure it satisfies your craving, and your desire to live with a little whimsy. The reason why this is on this list is because it’s less about the foods (but it’s a little about the food), but more about giving yourself permission to operate outside of the confines of your own rules. Breaking your own rules just reinforces why you have them. So go ahead, make cake for breakfast, have that Shirley Temple; that ice cream Sundae isn’t going to eat itself.

Baby Steps to the Elevator

Procrastination gets a bad rap, but I’m here to change that narrative. Instead of avoiding responsibilities altogether, procrastinate by doing other semi-productive tasks. It's like adulting with training wheels. If you have a large task ahead of you, break it down into baby steps and think about the component pieces that need to be done. Striking one of those tasks off the list is just as satisfying, and you didn’t have to dedicate the entire day. You made progress, but left yourself some time to relax or do other things.

Blanket Forts and Pillow Fights

Who says blanket forts are just for kids? Channel your inner architect and construct the coziest fortress known to humankind. Bonus points if you engage in a spontaneous pillow fight. Just be prepared to explain the mess to your roommate or significant other…or don’t and include them!

Remember, taking care of yourself doesn't always mean green smoothies, intense workouts and self deprivation. Sometimes, it's about embracing the chaos, finding joy in the little things (or the messy things), and laughing at the absurdity of being an “adult'“. Treat yourself to a weird snack, a blissful nap, or a blanket fort. You've earned it, you damn magnificent adult! 🎉✨