Are you married to your job?
In today’s world, there seems to be no boundaries between work and the rest of life.
Sometimes it feels as if we have a ball and chain tying us to the office.
At one point, there was a push for work-life balance.
However, I believe we’re in a world where it’s work-life integration.
Technology gives us immediate access to managers, co-workers, vendors, and clients.
But it also provides us with the flexibility to work anywhere — as long as there’s an internet connection.
Integrating work into our lives means we can be home for dinner with the family by 6 PM and back to work in our home office by 8 PM.
Or we can take an extended family vacation and block off time during the day to work.
Unfortunately, jobs that require in-person work don’t offer that flexibility (retail, healthcare, education, etc.).
As we approach mid-year, evaluate your life at work. Use the upcoming slower months to ponder the following questions.
Are you in an industry you find interesting?
Or is the pay good enough that it really doesn’t matter to you?
We’ve all been told to do something we’re passionate about, but that passion may be outside of what we do to generate income.
It may be through volunteer work or through providing experiences with your family.
Would you like more recognition?
Maybe there’s an award your firm gives that you want to achieve.
Or maybe there’s a professional organization that will provide you with the recognition you’re seeking.
Explore different organizations and find one that meets your needs.
Is there another role you would like to pursue?
Maybe there’s a position at your current employer you’d like to pursue.
Or perhaps you need to move to a new employer to escape being in a pigeonhole.
Do you need to increase your management or technical skills?
Is there a college program you could attend, or maybe an advanced degree you should pursue?
Perhaps, there’s a nonprofit organization that would benefit from your current skill set but still challenges you to grow.
Is your job adversely impacting your health?
If work stress is causing health issues for you, pay attention to your body. Constant stress for an extended period will increase your healthcare expenses.
Even if you generate a good income, is it worth compromising your health?
A job isn’t for better or for worse like a marriage.
Yes, you may encounter some difficult times the longer you’re with an employer.
But as long as you can grow professionally or maintain your contentment, hang in there.
Any changes you decide to make in 2026, commit to them.
Recognize that it will take time and effort, especially if you choose to find a new job.
If necessary, hire someone to keep you on track and focused.
And most importantly, remember to stay PEF (positive, enthusiastic, and focused)!
(Update to original post from November 9, 2022)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®, is a Managing Director at Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include developing comprehensive financial plans, divorce financial reviews, and retirement plans. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”