Career & Business Coaching Blog.
Inspiration and tips for multi-passionate creatives & entrepreneurs.
Rediscovering the Excitement in Your Work: A Quick Guide for Bored-Out Creatives
Do you dread going to work in the morning? Do you feel less and less passionate about your job? Do you find yourself daydreaming about a different career path? Are you bored out of your mind just by thinking about your day ahead? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, this quick guide is for you.
As a creative person, I understand the struggle of feeling uninspired and unfulfilled at work, especially when you think your skills and talents are underutilized. This can lead to burnout, which can affect your productivity, mental health, and, even worse, sometimes bore-out.
What is bore-out? And are you suffering from it?
Bore-out is a state of chronic boredom and disengagement at work, which can be just as damaging, if not more, than burnout. Many of the creative generalists and entrepreneurial clients I coach suffer from it. It's characterized by a lack of motivation, boredom, and apathy toward work. Unlike burnout, where you may feel overwhelmed with too much work, bore-out stems from not having enough challenging tasks or opportunities to use your skills. This can result in a loss of meaning and purpose in your job.
If this sounds familiar, you might be experiencing bore-out. Of course, leaving your job for something more exciting is always an option. But perhaps you don't want to go because you love what you do and simply lost the spark.
When 'settling' becomes the norm
Sadly, for many people, work is something they endure rather than enjoy. Gradually accepting boring jobs is a silent killer of professional dreams. But why do so many people let this happen? The golden cage, of course, but also the fear of change, a desire for financial stability, or simply not knowing what you want can keep you stuck in the status quo.
The problem with staying in a job that bores the living life out of you is that it has a ripple effect. It impacts your career, mental health, and personal relationships. In my practice, this is often a sign that my client's professional life needs a radical shift - or a career redesign.
The problem is, how do you find inspiration again when you're bored out of your mind? How do you avoid falling into the same trap in the future?
Understanding the spark you've lost
Before I share a few tips with you on rediscovering work excitement, it's essential to understand the reasons behind job bore-out. These can stem from various issues, such as:
Monotony: When your job doesn’t challenge you, and the tasks are repetitive and not complex enough, it’s easy to become disinterested.
Mismatch of skills: If you feel that your talents or skills aren’t being utilized, this can lead to a sense of your capabilities being underutilized, which in turn causes you to feel unfulfilled and bored.
Lack of autonomy: When you don’t have control over your work or decision-making, it can make you feel like you’re not contributing to anything meaningful. This lack of agency can lead to feeling disengaged and uninspired.
Lack of growth opportunities: Without clear paths for career advancement or learning new skills, you may feel stuck in a dead-end job. This can lead to a lack of motivation and interest in your work.
There are more reasons to feel bored at work, but these are some of the more important ones. Now that you understand some of the causes let’s explore a few ways to reconnect with our work and find joy in it again.
How do you rediscover the excitement in your work?
To escape the bore-out cycle without having to quit your job, here are a few tips to help you rekindle your passion and creativity:
Identify the root cause: The first step in overcoming bore-out is understanding why you feel this way. This is usually a long and reflective step when I work with clients. Is it because of a lack of challenging tasks? Are you not using your skills to their full potential? Do you feel like your talents are being wasted? Is your manager not providing enough guidance or support? Once you identify the root cause, finding a solution will be easier.
Set new challenges for yourself: If your job has become too routine and mundane, try setting new challenges yourself. This could be taking on new projects, learning new skills, or volunteering for tasks outside your usual responsibilities. You can do this by yourself or include your colleagues or manager. This will not only make your work more interesting, but it can also help you develop new skills and grow professionally.
Take breaks and disconnect: Being constantly connected to work can lead to burnout or boredom. Taking breaks throughout the day and completely disconnecting from work during your off-hours is essential. This allows your mind to rest and recharge, leading to increased creativity and productivity when you get back to work. Set boundaries and stick to them, even if it means saying "no" to extra work or checking emails during off-hours.
Find meaning in your work: People become bored with their jobs because they don't see the purpose or impact of their work. This is also one of the main reasons people lose motivation. To counter this, try to find meaning in your job by connecting it to a larger goal or purpose. Understand how your role contributes to the well-being of others and the company's mission and vision. Knowing that your work has an impact can help motivate you and make you feel more fulfilled.
Seek out new opportunities: If you've been in your current job for a while, it's natural to feel like you've hit a dead end. However, there are always opportunities for growth and advancement if you seek them out. This could be through networking events, professional development courses, or even applying for new positions within the company. Don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and take on new challenges. It can help reignite your passion for your job and open up new career opportunities.
I help creatives and entrepreneurs get unstuck. This often means that with the work we do together, they transition into new and better careers. But the pursuit of an exciting career doesn't mean you have to quit your job. The path to fulfillment and professional success is not often linear, and change is rarely immediate. Figuring out what a great career is for you is an ongoing journey of self-discovery and growth.
By recognizing the reasons behind your work boredom, addressing your fears and blocks, and actively looking for renewed excitement, you can find joy and purpose in your work again. So keep going. And if you need help, I'm here for you!
Feeling stuck in a career that no longer excites you?
You're not alone. Many creatives and entrepreneurs are looking for a spark in their professional lives. That's why I offer a free coaching session for individuals just like you who are ready to break free from the monotony and rediscover what it means to be truly engaged and fulfilled in your work.
Don't settle for boredom. Explore your potential, redefine your path, and find a new spark in your career. This is your chance to get personalized guidance, gain clarity, and take the first step toward a job that not only pays the bills but excites and inspires you!
You Deserve to Love Your Job: Here's How to Make it Happen (And Avoid Job Regret)
So many people think it's normal to hate their job. They slog through their days, feeling drained and unhappy. Eventually, they regret starting a job; or resigning for something new like so many people did during the “great resignation”. They thought a new job would be great and now dread coming to work each day, like 72% of young workers, according to a recent survey on “shift shock”. They stay in jobs they dislike because they don't think they deserve better. But that's not true! You deserve to love your job, and it is possible to make that happen. This article will discuss why so many people dislike their jobs or experience job regret and how you can leave or change your job to get one you love. We'll also talk about creating a career that is right for you and makes you happy!
What is job regret?
Job regret is a feeling of dissatisfaction or disappointment with a job you have taken. It can be caused by anything from salary and benefits to work environment, hours, and coworkers. Job regret is usually the result of taking a job without carefully considering all factors that could make it an undesirable position. It may also occur when expectations are unmet, or something changes in your life (like a move or a change in a family situation) that makes your current job no longer ideal for you.
Creatives and entrepreneurs (and creative generalists especially) are prone to experiencing job regret. There are a few reasons for it:
A lack of clarity about what type of job would suit them best
Unrealistic expectations for their career
Feeling like they don't belong in the corporate world
Not fully understanding what it takes to transition from one field or role to another successfully.
It's essential to recognize that feeling dissatisfied with your job isn't something to be ashamed of — it happens! It's how you handle the situation that matters. Let's explore.
You're allowed to love your job!
A wonderful client of mine, let's call her Julietta, was stuck in a job she hated. She was stressed out, unfulfilled, and desperately wanted something different. But despite her unhappiness, she stayed in the position because she felt she didn't deserve anything better. During one of her coaching sessions, Julietta cried and told me how frustrated she was with her job. Then, she asked: "Murielle, am I allowed to love my job?"
That question took my breath away. I've heard many things in almost a decade of being a career and business coach, and even though I know many people wonder about the same thing as Julietta, it was the first time someone had put it into words.
My answer was clear: "Yes, Julietta (and that goes for you as well), you are allowed to love your job!" In fact, it is your right to have a job that makes you happy. You don't have to stay stuck in a job that sucks the life out of you and doesn't fulfill you professionally or personally. Just hearing those words gave Julietta the permission she needed to take action. She started exploring other career options and eventually found one she was passionate about. Now, instead of dreading Mondays, she looks forward to starting her workweek.
Why do we think it's normal to hate our jobs?
In that same session, I asked Julietta why she thought that it was normal for people to hate their jobs, and for her, in particular, to be OK with that, and after some reflection, we uncovered a few reasons:
She had been told by society that it was normal to hate your job, so she accepted it as her fate.
She wasn't sure how to find a job that made her happy or how to create one for herself.
She didn't want to disappoint her father, who wanted her to have a "stable" job with a good salary.
She felt ashamed to admit that she wanted more from life than the 9-to-5 grind offered.
She was afraid of change.
These are all common reasons why many people stay stuck in jobs they don't love. But there is an alternative. It's easy to think that you don't deserve better, but that's not the case. You deserve to love your job, and it is possible to make that happen! What kind of life would it be if we simply had to accept the status quo and never aim for something better? Because that is why so many of us think we have to settle for jobs we don't like: because we've been taught that's the way things are, and it's easier to stay stuck than to go against the grain or strive for something better.
How to make your job more enjoyable
If you're unhappy in your current position, it doesn't mean you should quit. Perhaps you enjoy parts of your job, and you're looking for ways to make it more enjoyable. Here are some tips:
Speak up about the issues you have. If something isn't working for you at your job (like hours, workload, salary), talk to your supervisor about it and see if anything can be done to improve it.
Create goals and milestones for yourself. Setting goals and milestones can help you stay motivated and focused on the bigger picture. It can also help you track your progress and feel proud of your accomplishments.
Find ways to enjoy the work you do. If tasks don't interest or energize you, find ways to make them more enjoyable – listen to music, take short breaks often, or have friendly competitions with your colleagues.
Identify the tasks that drain your energy and focus on delegating or eliminating them. Ask yourself which activities you can delegate to someone else or eliminate.
Recognize and reward your accomplishments. Celebrate the wins, no matter how small. Pat yourself on the back for a job well done, and use these moments as reminders of why you do what you do.
Changing jobs or creating your own career path
So, let's talk about the practical steps for making this happen for you. To start with, if you're in a job that you hate and are ready to leave it, there are some things that you can do to make sure you get the best outcome:
Start by figuring out what you need and want in your next job. Make a list of the things that would make you happy, such as working from home, having flexible hours, etc.
Update your resume and apply for jobs that fit this description.
Reach out to people in industries or positions you're interested in and ask them questions about their work and experiences. This will give you a better understanding of what options are available to you.
Use networking opportunities to connect with potential employers and expand your professional network.
Finally, take risks! Don't be afraid to try something new or step outside of your comfort zone - it
Finding a job you love
The activities of the previous point are a good starting point for finding a job you love. The next step to take is understanding what makes you passionate. This can be anything from wanting more freedom in your career, or being able to have an impact on the world around you. Your passions (especially if you're a creative generalist, a creative, or an entrepreneur) will help guide you toward a career that aligns with your values and makes you happy. Once you know what drives and excites you, then it's time to start exploring different job opportunities. You don't have to stay stuck in the same cycle of unhappiness – there are plenty of resources for finding jobs that make you happy.
Finding a job you love is possible, but it requires some work. Here are some tips for finding or creating the job of your dreams:
Get clear on what makes you happy and fulfilled professionally. What kind of work do you enjoy? What makes you feel energized? What type of environment do you want to be in? Take some time to reflect on these questions and write down your answers.
Do your research and explore different industries, roles, and companies that could fit with what you are looking for. Networking can also help open doors and get you in contact with potential employers.
When applying or interviewing for jobs, be sure to ask the right questions about culture, roles, and responsibilities. You must get a good understanding of what the job is really like, so you can make an informed decision.
If a traditional job isn't working out for you, consider creating your own career path by freelancing or starting a business. This will give you more control over your work, and you can create something that aligns with your passions and values.
Remember to take care of yourself during this process! Changing careers is hard work, and staying motivated and pushing forward is essential even when things seem harsh. Take some time to relax and recharge to remain focused on your goals.
Creating a career that is right for you
If the traditional 9-to-5 job isn't working out, or if you have a hard time finding the right job, then why not create a career that fits your passions and lifestyle? The possibilities are endless! As a coach, I love to help clients create careers that are tailored to their unique skills, interests, and values.
Here are some steps you can take for creating a career that is uniquely yours:
Get clear on your passions, skills, and values – what do you enjoy doing? What unique experiences or qualifications do you have? What drives and excites you? Take the time to understand who You could become a consultant, start an online business, or go freelance. You can also be creative in how you make money – try teaching classes, selling products or services, or even writing books. There are plenty of ways to make money while doing something you love.
Develop an action plan. What steps do you need to take to reach your goals? This could include creating a website, networking with potential clients, or researching the market.
Build relationships for support. Working for yourself can be isolating, so it's important to find community and collaboration opportunities that will help motivate and inspire you along the way. A mentor, colleagues, or friends can provide valuable advice and guidance as you pursue your dreams.
Take action! The most important part of creating a career is taking consistent action toward your goals. Even if it's just one small step each day – take the plunge and start doing something every day to get closer to achieving what you want.
Stay flexible. Creating a career for yourself is an ever-evolving process, and staying open to new opportunities and changes along the way is essential. Don't be afraid to pivot or adjust your plans if needed – it's all part of the journey!
The key takeaway here is that no matter what job you have, it's important to take steps toward creating a career that makes you feel fulfilled and energized each day. When we love our jobs, we can show up and do our best work. So take the time to explore, research, and plan out your career path – you're sure to find something that suits you perfectly!
Happy exploring! :)
Are you feeling stuck in your career and don't know what to do next?
You're not alone. A lot of people feel this way at some point in their lives. That's why I offer private coaching to help you figure out what your next steps should be.
Avoiding job regret is important, and I can help you do that. I'll give you the tools and resources you need to make a successful career change. Plus, I'm an experienced professional who has helped hundreds of people achieve their goals. You can trust me to help you too.
The 5 Worst Career Stagnation Traps And How to Avoid Them.
Do you feel like it's time for a change? Are you counting the hours as soon as you get to the office, behind your computer screen at home, or in that coffee shop you love so much? Do you wish you could follow your passion or feel more challenged in your current career?
If you're stuck in a career rut, you're not alone. Career stagnation is a common issue many people face at some point in their working lives. It's one of the main reasons people come to me for help. We get stuck in our careers for various reasons – we might not be happy with what we're doing or feel like we've hit a dead end. Sometimes we feel like there's more we could be doing with our lives or that we're just not progressing in the way we want to. Financial concerns often play a part in it, too, as we feel like we can't afford to make a change or take a risk.
Whatever the reason you might feel stuck right now, there are a few key traps that can lead to career stagnation, and it's essential to be aware of them to get unstuck or to avoid them altogether.
What to do when you feel stuck in your career?
If you're feeling stuck in your career, taking action and making some changes is crucial. Otherwise, you'll only become unhappy and feel like you're wasting your time.
If there's one thing I know about helping hundreds of people get unstuck, the longer you wait, the more stuck you feel. Another reason why so many people stay stuck is that they overthink things to the point of never taking any action at all. Instead of doing something about our situation, most of us wait until the magical day when we won't feel so stuck anymore before we do something about our situation.
The problem is, you cannot think yourself out of anything. If you want to change, eventually, you have to go out and do something. This article will explore the five worst career stagnation traps and how you can avoid them to get unstuck and move your career forward.
Trap 1: You're in the wrong career
The first trap is self-explanatory – you might be in the wrong career altogether. If you're in the wrong career, you're not going to be challenged, you're not going to enjoy what you're doing, and you're not going to feel motivated or fulfilled. This is a common problem and is often the root cause of career stagnation.
The only way to get out of this trap is to make a career change. And while that might seem like a daunting task, it doesn't have to be. Plenty of resources are available to help you figure out what you want to do and how to make the transition. Career coaching can be a great way to get some guidance and support if you're unsure how to start.
Trap 2: You're in the wrong job
The second trap is similar to the first, but it's not as drastic. You might be in the right career but in the wrong job. This can happen for several reasons – maybe you took a job because it was the only one available at the time, or you took it for the money without thinking about whether you would actually like it.
Whatever the reason, it will be difficult to feel challenged or motivated if you're in the wrong job. The good news is that this is an easier problem to solve than being in the wrong career. You don't necessarily have to make a career change, but you might need to make a job change.
You can do a few things to figure out if you're in the wrong job. First, ask yourself whether you actually like what you're doing on a day-to-day basis. If the answer is no, it's time to start looking for something else. Second, think about whether the job is challenging you and making you grow. If it's not, you'll probably not feel fulfilled in the long run. Finally, look at the company culture and values – are they aligned with your own? If not, it might be time to move on.
Trap 3: You're not progressing
The third trap is that you might be stuck in a job that's just not going anywhere. You're not being promoted, you're not being given more responsibility, your skills are being underutilized, and you feel like you're just treading water. This can be a frustrating situation to be in, especially if you're ambitious and want to move up in your career.
The first thing to do is to have a conversation with your boss about your career goals and what you need to do to progress. If they're unwilling to help you, it might be time to look for another job. But even if they're willing to help, there might not be any room for progression in your current role. In that case, you might need to look for a new job anyway.
Sometimes your lack of progress is not due to a lack of opportunity or promotions but because you're too comfortable. If you're comfortable with where you are in your career, it can be tempting to stay there. But comfort can lead to complacency, and if you're not challenged, you might start to feel bored or unchallenged in your role. It's important to push yourself outside of your comfort zone and try new things, even if it means taking a risk.
Trap 4: You're in the right career, but you're not being challenged
The fourth trap is that you might be in a job that's just too easy. Especially for creatives and entrepreneurs (as well as creative generalists), it's important to be challenged to use our intellectual and creative skills. If you're not being challenged, you're not learning anything new. This can be just as frustrating as the last trap because it can make you feel like you're wasting your time.
The solution to this problem is similar to the previous one – you must find ways to challenge yourself. This might mean taking on more responsibility at work or finding side projects or hobbies that push you outside your comfort zone. It's also essential to continuously learn and keep up with new trends in your industry. This can be done by reading books, attending conferences, or taking courses.
Trap 5: You're not aligned with your interests and passions
The fifth and final trap is that you might be in a job you don't love or that isn't aligned with the stuff that makes you get out of bed in the morning. Maybe you took it for the money or because it was the only thing available then. But whatever the reason, if you're not passionate about your work, and if the work isn't interesting to you, then it's going to be challenging to feel motivated.
The only way to get out of this trap is to make a career change. And while that might seem daunting, it's important to remember that staying where you are will only make you stagnate more, not less.
Making a career change can be a big decision, but it's important to remember that you're not stuck in your current situation. If you're unhappy with your career, there are things you can do to change it. The first thing to do is to identify which of the five traps you might fall into. Once you've done that, you can start taking steps to get out of the trap and move forward with your career.
Feeling like you've hit a dead end in your career?
You're not alone. Many people feel stuck at some point in their careers. That's where private coaching can help. As a career and business coach with more than eight years of experience helping people get unstuck, I will work with you to help you overcome any barriers that are holding you back and help you achieve your career goals.
Imagine how good it will feel to finally make progress in your career. Picture yourself confidently interviewing for jobs, getting promoted, or starting your own business. With the help of a skilled coach, anything is possible.
The Courage to Quit: Five Things You Can do When You're Ready For Something New
Quitting is never easy. It's one of the most challenging things we can do. Whether it's a job, a romantic relationship or friendship, or a project we decided not to pursue. Whatever it is, quitting is hard. Not only because we have to let go of something but also because we have to face our fears.
That's why most of us overthink it and try to find excuses not to do it, even when we know in our guts that we should. This is especially true when we feel responsible, don't want to hurt anyone, or care about what other people think of us. But even if quitting requires courage, it doesn't mean you should hold off from doing it. When you're ready for something new, it's often the only thing you can think about until - guess what? - you finally do something about it!
That, to me, is the telltale sign that it's time for a change. In this article, I share five things that have helped me find the courage to make bold moves in my life and work and how I believe you can, too.
Why do we overthink?
When we overthink, we often try to silence our intuition instead of listening to it. Our gut tells us what something is right for us way before our mind does, but we don't always trust it. We second-guess ourselves and wonder if we're making the right decision. This is because we're afraid of the unknown and failure. But what if we looked at quitting in a different light? What if, instead of seeing it as a sign of weakness, we saw it as an act of courage?
We overthink because our minds are trying to figure something out that only time will tell. We want absolute certainty before taking a step forward, but life rarely works out that way. The more we try to control things, the more we realize that we can't. That's precisely why we need to have faith and trust our gut.
If you're considering quitting something, here are five things you can do:
Take time for yourself. This is probably the most important thing you can do. When we're ready for something new, we often feel we have to make a decision immediately. But it's essential to take some time for yourself first. Ask yourself why you want to quit and what you hope to gain from it. What are your fears, and how can you face them? Taking the time to think about your decision will help you make a more informed choice. The sense of urgency often makes the decision harder to take. When you take that pressure away, you might find the decision relatively easy.
Talk to people who have done it before. If you know anyone who has gone through a similar experience, talk to them about it. Ask them how they made the decision and what the process was like. Hearing other people's stories will help normalize your own experience and make it feel less daunting. Everyone quits sometimes, and most people feel some level of fear when they do. Don't be afraid to reach out for support. The more stories you hear from others and how they've done it, the easier it will be for you to choose a different path for yourself.
Confide in someone you trust. When facing a tough decision, it's often helpful to talk to someone you feel safe with enough to share what is going on with you. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, or coach. Talking about our fears and concerns can help us gain clarity and perspective. It can also help us feel less alone in our decision-making process. Another reason why it's important to share what you're going through is we're often standing too close to our problems to see our options. Having someone listen and reflect back to us what they heard can help us see things in a new light.
Get rid of perfectionism. One of the main reasons we don't quit is because we're afraid of not doing it perfectly. We think we have to have everything figured out before we make a move, but that's rarely the case. Often, the best way to learn is by doing. So instead of waiting for things to be perfect, take imperfect action and trust that you'll figure it out along the way. Moving forward without knowing all the steps in advance allows you to be flexible as you progress into this new chapter of your life, which is always important.
Find an ounce of clarity. The first thing you can do is get some clarity about the thing you want. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it's often the most challenging part. We can be so caught up in our current situation that we can't see what else is out there. When you're ready to quit, take some time to think about what you want. What are your goals? What would make you happy? Visualize what your life will look like once you've decided and finally quit what isn't working for you anymore. Once you have at least a little bit of understanding of what you want, it will be easier to take the following steps.
Finally, and this is what helps me the most when I've decided to quit something, make a conscious decision to step into this new chapter of your life. Making a significant change is never easy, and it doesn't happen overnight, but by actively deciding to change your life, you're setting yourself up for success. So take a deep breath, trust your gut and go for it! In the end, you're the one that needs to do it.
I hope these tips will help you find the courage to make a change in your life. If you're feeling stuck, remember that you're not alone, and there is always a way out. Change is scary, but it's also exciting and full of possibilities. So leap and see what happens! You might surprise yourself.
Feeling lost and uncertain about your next steps?
Private coaching is a great way to gain clarity on what you should do next in your life or career. I can help you assess whether or not it's time for a change and give you the tools necessary to make that change happen.
If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated, coaching can provide the support, accountability, and guidance you need to make lasting changes in your life and work.
Quiet Quitting: A Creative Generalist's Response to Not Being Valued
You're stuck in a job you hate, doing work that doesn't challenge you, being undervalued by your boss. Maybe you've even tried to talk to them about it, but it always ends in disaster. So what do you do? You quit. But not just any old way – you quietly quit.
Quiet quitting has been in the news lately, with more and more people doing it. And there's a good reason for that. People want to be valued and recognized for their work; they want to feel they matter. As someone who works extensively with creatives and entrepreneurs, I know this to be true. In this article, I want to explore quiet quitting a little further, how it affects us creative types, and what to do about it.
What is quiet quitting?
What is quiet quitting? It's when you don’t leave your job, you just stop caring about it. You don't hand in your notice; you stop stepping up and doing your best. It might not be the most professional way to do things, but sometimes it's the only way to deal with a situation that's making you miserable.
There are a few reasons why people might choose to quietly quit their job. Maybe they feel undervalued, bored, and underappreciated, or they can't stand the thought of going to work another day. Whatever the reason, quiet quitting is on the rise. Low pay, poor working conditions, burn-out, unsustainable workloads, and pressure are only a few reasons why people choose to stay in their jobs but not give their all to them anymore.
Although the concept and term are pretty new, quiet quitting isn't. It says, "I'm still here, but I've checked out." Demotivation and loss of a sense of purpose, alongside negative experiences at work, often lead to quiet quitting. I see it in my coaching practice a lot: people remaining at the same workplace but relaying to doing the bare minimum, putting in time but not effort.
Why do creative generalists quiet quit?
I would argue that although quiet quitting isn't new, and many people do it, creative generalists especially, have been doing it for years. We've always been told that we're not good enough, that we're not focused enough, and that we need to pick one thing and stick with it. We've been told that our multiple talents and interests are a hindrance, not an asset. We've been told that we're not valuable. So we've quietly quit.
Creative generalists are often quiet quitters because their work is undervalued. They're told that their ideas are too out there, that they're too chaotic, that they'll never make it. So they give up and resort to doing what is asked of them, not what they’re capable of producing.
Just this morning, one of my best friends and a creative generalist told me she was quiet quitting her highly demanding job. "I'm tired of always hearing about the little thing not being right when I've moved mountains for this company and made miracles happen. I can't stand being underutilized and seeing my talents and interests go to waste. So if they don't want what I have to offer, I won't put in any extra effort from now on."
Last week, another creative client said something similar: "I'm so bored at work, I'm begging for them to use my talents, but they just want me to fill out spreadsheets. So now I've decided only to do the bare minimum; they don't appreciate me anyway."
Both are scaling back at work, taking a stance about exploitative work cultures, and thinking about where to take their careers next. One clear thing is that the next move needs to be meaningful, where they can reach their potential and hone in on their skills, talents, and expertise.
What to do when you realize you're quiet quitting?
People quiet quit for different reasons. Once you realize that you've been quiet quitting your job, my advice would be to do something about it. Don't just stay in a job because it pays the bills; you need more than money to be happy.
If you're bored and undervalued, it might be time to move on. Talk to your boss about using your talents more, or look for a new job that will value what you have to offer. If you're feeling burnt out, try cutting back on your hours or taking some time off. And if you're just plain unhappy, it might be time to start exploring other options.
Other things you can do when you realize you're quit quitting include:
Talk to a career coach or mentor about your options
Take steps at work so you can do more meaningful work
Consider a career transition and find something more aligned with who you are
There is no one-size-fits-all solution to quiet quitting, but the most important thing is, to be honest with yourself about why you're doing it. Once you know the reasons, you can start taking steps to change the situation.
The bottom line is this: if you're not happy in your job, don't just quiet quit, do something about it. Don't stay in a situation that's making you miserable. Life's too short to waste time on things that don't make you happy. Quiet quitting doesn't have to be the end of your career. It can be a new beginning. So if you're quiet quitting your job, it might be time to make a change.
Quit quitting your job?
You're not alone. Many people find themselves at a dead end, feeling like they've hit a wall. That's where private coaching can help. Together, we'll explore your options to help you find new opportunities and get unstuck in your career.
I know it can be hard to take that first step towards change, but I'm here to help you every step of the way. Coaching is an investment in yourself and will pay off for years to come.
The Great Resignation: What to do if You're Ready to Quit Your Job
You might have heard about the Great Resignation, also known as the Big Quit and the Great Reshuffle. This massive wave of people quitting their jobs and looking for something better or a different way of life is an ongoing economic trend in which employees have voluntarily resigned from their jobs en masse. And it all started at the beginning of 2021.
Statistics point towards the younger generations as the biggest resignation group, but they're not alone. According to Wikipedia, possible causes include wage stagnation amid the rising cost of living, long-lasting job dissatisfaction, safety concerns of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the desire to work for companies with better remote-working policies. An overall sense of dissatisfaction, a lack of purpose, and too little pay for shitty jobs make people want to explore new options. As a business and career coach, I've long seen this wave coming (it really didn’t start with the pandemic!), but everything accelerated with covid and the lockdowns.
This article is for people feeling the resignation itch and ready to quit jobs. It starts by briefly exploring the reasons why this resignation wave might be going on (without trying to be exhaustive as this is an incredibly complex socio-economic phenomenon) and continues by offering some tips and insights on how to best surf the wave and what to do if you're ready to quit your job.
What's wrong with work?
Work has been in crisis for a very long time. For the last decades, we've seen a slow and steady erosion of the social contract between employer and employee. In the past, companies offered workers stability and security for their loyalty and hard work. But now, that social contract has all but disappeared. Companies are no longer loyal to their employees – they're only interested in short-term profits. And as a result, employees have become increasingly disposable. If you don't like your job, or if you're not working hard enough, or if you're not making enough money, then there are a million other people who would gladly take your place. This is especially true during economic downturns when jobs are scarce, and competition for jobs is fierce.
In addition, the traditional career path – working your way up the ladder at one company until you retire – is no longer guaranteed. In today's economy, jobs are often temporary and insecure. And even if you have a secure job, there's no guarantee that it will be exciting or fulfilling. So it's no wonder that so many people are quitting their jobs. They're tired of being treated like commodities, and they're tired of work that isn't worthwhile.
The Great Resignation is also a response to the changing nature of work. We now live in a hyper-specialized world, where workers are expected to do a limited type of work. This is especially true in the knowledge economy, where workers are often nothing more than cogs in a machine. They're not allowed to use their creativity or their intelligence, and they're not given the opportunity to grow. This can be incredibly frustrating, (especially for creative generalists) and it's one of the main reasons many people quit their jobs.
What makes people want to quit?
As I mentioned before, there are many reasons why people might want to quit their jobs. But here are some of the most common ones:
#1 Lack of purpose
The first reason I see clients come to me for a career change is the lack of purpose that many people feel in their work. Jobs have become increasingly specialized, and while this has its advantages, it also means that people (particularly creative generalists or multi-passionate creatives) often spend their days doing things they don't care about or don't make them feel good. This can be incredibly frustrating and is one of the main reasons people are looking for something new.
#2 Low pay (for shitty jobs)
The second reason I see clients being dissatisfied is that many jobs don't pay enough. This has always been a problem, but it's becoming more and more acute as the cost of living continues to rise while wages remain stagnant. Add to this that many low-paying jobs are among the shittiest, and you've got a resignation wave waiting to happen.
#3 Boring and unfulfilling jobs
The third reason clients tell me they want to change careers is because they are dissatisfied with their jobs. Part of this is due to the reasons I've already mentioned, but it's also because we're becoming increasingly aware of the options out there. With the internet and social media, it's easier than ever to see what other people are doing with their lives, and this can often make our own lives seem small, boring, and unfulfilling by comparison.
#4 Lack of challenges and inspiration
The fourth reason I see clients change careers (or start a business of their own) is that they feel they're not being challenged enough at work. They're only allowed to bring a small part of their talents to work, but nothing else. Especially for (multi-passionate) creatives and entrepreneurs, this can be challenging. They want to be able to create, experiment and play, but their jobs often don't allow it.
#5 Toxic environments and being squeezed like lemons
The fifth most common reason I see people resign and change careers is when they're faced with toxic environments or are under such pressure to perform that they're being squeezed like lemons. Unfortunately, this is becoming increasingly common as organizations try to do more with less, and employees are expected to pick up the slack. This often leads to a toxic work environment, where people are constantly stressed and overworked.
These are just a few reasons people come to me for career or business coaching. If you're feeling ready to quit your job, my advice is to explore all of your options and find something that genuinely makes you happy.
So what can you do if you're ready to quit your job?
First of all, don't panic. This is a big decision, and you should not take it lightly. If you're thinking about quitting your job, it's essential to take the time to reflect on your decision. What are your motivations for wanting to leave? What are your goals? What are your alternatives? Once you've thought through these questions, you'll be in a better position to make a decision.
If you're sure quitting your job is the right decision, the next step is to start planning your exit strategy. It doesn't mean that you have to leave tomorrow, but it does mean that you need to start thinking about how you're going to transition out of your current job. Are you going to give notice? Are you going to start looking for a new job first? Are you going to freelance or become self-employed? There are many options, and the best way forward will depend on your circumstances.
The most important thing is to make sure that you have a plan. Once you have a plan, quitting your job will be much easier (and less stressful). So take the time to think through your decision, find support (hey, hello, I can help!), and develop a plan that will work for you.
Quitting your job is a big decision, but it can be incredibly liberating. With careful planning and a bit of courage, you can leap and start living the life you want to live! If you're unhappy with your current situation, don't be afraid to explore your options and make a change.
I know because I see and help people do it every day!
Feeling stuck in your career?
You're not the only one. A lot of people are unhappy in their jobs, but they don't know what to do about it. That's where we come in! I'm a certified career coach, and I can help you figure out what you want to do and how to get there.
I'll help you find a job that makes you happy, and give you the tools you need to succeed. I've helped hundreds of people make a change for the better, and I know I can help you too.
How to Get Unstuck in Your Career: 5 Tips to Figure Out Your Next Career Move
Are you feeling stuck in your career? Are you unsure of what your next career move should be? If so, don't worry – you're not alone. Many people find themselves in this position at some point. The good news is that there are ways to get unstuck and figure out your next career move. This article will discuss five tips to help you get started.
Over the last decade, I've spent thousands of hours helping business owners and (multi-passionate) creative entrepreneurs get unstuck.
There are many reasons we get stuck, but one of the most common reasons I hear clients talk about when they get stuck is overwhelm. We get a burst of inspiration or passion and get carried away about how awesome it all could be. The ideas get more elaborate without us taking any real action until we wind up feeling afraid, frustrated, and burnt out at the mountain we've created in our mind - even before we started!
Or we're caught up in the routines of everyday life, going through the motions, feeling like Bill Murray in the movie Groundhog Day, reliving the same day repeatedly. I felt like I was stuck on the same day for a long time, and many of the people I've helped throughout the years have told me that they felt like that for a long time as well.
When every day feels the same, we start to feel an itch.
Perhaps you’ve felt or are currently feeling like this. We know something is off, but we can’t quite put our finger on it. This, too, can be very overwhelming. I remember spending sleepless nights imagining an alternative life where I was happy and successful, where I wasn’t afraid of making mistakes or making bold moves, where every day would be exciting and new. But every morning, I would go back to doing the same thing. I knew what I had, but I didn’t know if what I wanted would even be possible for me.
The thing about overwhelm is that it's a catch-all phrase. The visual I get when I hear the word is a big, tsunami-like wave that splashes over us. When we say we're overwhelmed, we don't see the forest through the trees anymore. It's not always because we have a burst of energy or inspiration and too many ideas. Overwhelm can also happen when we're afraid, anxious, stressed out, or overthinking. All of these feelings and states of being can and often will get in the way of what we want.
If you get overwhelmed, are afraid, or don’t know what to do at times, I’m sure you’ll know exactly what it means to “feel like there’s so much out there for you, but you don’t know where to start, how to get there, and you’re afraid it won’t work.” If this is you, don't worry, you're not alone. I've felt that way for a long time, as have many of my clients. That's precisely why I decided to write this article.
The tried & tested action steps I'm sharing below have helped hundreds of people to find clarity and a way forward in their careers, sometimes after feeling stuck for years. Maybe this is how you're feeling right now. Perhaps you've been thinking about a career change or what to do next for a while. If you have, I want you to know that there is a way out of this rut, that there is a creative, fun, fulfilling career waiting for you, and that this guide will help you get there.
How to get unstuck and move forward with your career
Change takes time, effort, and commitment. But I can tell you that if you keep reading and do the short exercises below, you will gain clarity and start thinking about things differently. That's precisely where we need to begin to help you get unstuck: change how you look at the problem in front of you.
STEP 1: Ask yourself what you can control regarding your career.
When talking about change, I always ask clients to share how difficult they find it to change. They reply by telling me that it's probably one of the hardest things they've ever had to do. I think it's true, don't you? When you've been stuck for a while, thinking about change can cause agony and despair. That's how hard it is (but it doesn't need to be, hence this ebook). But here's the thing. If it's so hard to change ourselves, how hard is it for us to try and change someone else? Still, we insist on trying. The boss that never listens to us, the co-worker who's always sloppy and never fills the coffee machine properly, the clients who know we're giving them our best but keep on nagging about something anyway. As strange as it may be, we've told all these people a million times how we want them to behave and treat us, and still they insist on ignoring us.
So what’s a better way to deal with this?
To get unstuck, you have to rethink the person you are to fit your dreams. And most importantly, you must take control of your career, allow yourself to dream your dreams, and believe that you can achieve them. Remember that you can control how you show up, work, and treat the people around you. But that's it. You cannot control other people, their reactions, or what they do. You also cannot control the economy, your boss, or the company you work for.
STEP 2: Get curious about your professional life.
The second step is to get curious. Yes, really! Curiosity breeds creativity and innovative thoughts, so it's time to start asking yourself questions that will help you see things differently and get unstuck.
Especially as multi-passionate creatives and entrepreneurs, we use our curiosity every day. We don't always use it to our advantage when it comes to our careers. Right now is the time for you to be limitless, to imagine your professional life as big and bold as you can imagine it because successful career change can happen for you if you let it.
As we've touched on in step one, it's about starting to see things differently and discover the options you have, not the ones you have confined yourself to. Remember that the answers to these questions might not come right away, and that's okay. Allow yourself the time to marinate on them and see what new ideas or options start to emerge.
STEP 3: Get creative about your career options.
The third step is to get creative about your career options. In my experience, one of the key reasons why we get stuck in our careers is overthinking. "I have all these career and business ideas, but I'm not sure which one to start first or what could even be successful!"
It's normal because our natural human tendency is to overthink before taking action. Almost everyone experiences this at least once when wondering about a career change or thinking about starting their own thing. When I get stuck on an important decision, I've learned to distract myself temporarily until the answer becomes obvious; less thinking + more doing = taking action.
When we get stuck, our momentum has been slowed down or dramatically stopped. The easiest way to get unstuck is to get back into some action where you are moving forward again, even if it's just taking one tiny step in the right direction. That's where creativity comes in: come up with some actions you can take. Remember that you can't go wrong with your answers and that it doesn't need to be an overnight insight. Creatively brainstorming about solutions can feel uncomfortable. Letting go are your fears and limiting beliefs is the first step to taking action on your creative career ideas. After all, this is your career we're talking about, and you deserve to spend time getting to know inside and out what could work for you.
STEP 4: Take inspired action on your career options.
The fourth step is to take inspired action on your career options. I say "inspired" because I want you to do something that feels good in your gut, even if it scares you. Inspired action always comes from a place of knowing and feeling that what you're doing is the right thing, even if it's not clear yet.
When we don't take inspired action, our career goals can feel more like obligations or duties instead of something that feels good to us. This is usually because we haven't taken the time to clarify what we want and why we want it. Remember that it doesn't have to be perfect and that you'll learn as you go. The most important thing is that you take action towards your career goal and don't give up.
STEP 5: Believe in yourself and your career dreams.
The fifth step is to believe in yourself and your career dreams. This might be the hardest step for some people because it means feeling confident even when we're not sure of what the future holds.
Making a career change can be scary, but it's also a fantastic opportunity to discover more about yourself and what you're truly capable of. We should continuously work towards career dreams and goals, even when we don't feel confident in them. The truth is that nobody knows everything, and that's okay.
Moreover, confidence - just like clarity - is something that you achieve by doing. The more you try things out, the more you learn about what works and doesn't work for you, and the more confident you become, especially in your capacity to grow and figure things out. That's why it's so important to move forward and think about your next step consistently. Remember that you’re capable of anything you put your mind to. Believe in yourself and the career dreams you have, and take action on them.
PS: This article is the short version of an eBook I wrote and that you can download for free here.
Feeling stuck in your career?
You're not alone. A lot of people feel stuck at some point in their careers. That's where I come in. I'm a career coach with almost a decade of experience helping creatives and entrepreneurs figure out their next steps.
Wouldn't it be great to have someone help you get unstuck? Someone who understands what you're going through and can help guide you to the next step? Well, that's what I do. And it's what I love to do. So let me help you get unstuck and on your way to the career of your dreams.