The Great Resignation, Ep #209

Published: Sept. 13, 2021, 8 a.m.

b'

Have you been feeling the pull to retire? This feeling isn\\u2019t constrained to those nearing retirement age; many people have been feeling the desire to quit their jobs lately. So many workers are considering a job change that this wave of people has begun what is called \\u201cThe Great Resignation.\\u201d I read about this phenomenon on\\xa0The Guardian website\\xa0in an article written by Elle Hunt. Elle considers 17 questions that you should ask yourself before you make the leap into the unknown. If you have been contemplating retirement or a job change you won\\u2019t want to miss this episode.

Outline of This Episode

  • [2:02] 17 questions to ask yourself if you are ready to quit your job
  • [4:53] What do you actually want to do?
  • [8:08] What could you gain by quitting your job?
  • [12:55] You can\\u2019t bootstrap your mortgage

Attitudes surrounding employment are changing

A recent survey indicated that over 40% of people have considered a job change this year. This trend could be a byproduct of stress brought on by the pandemic, but it could be due to a global shift in mindset which has led to a changing shift in employment priorities.\\xa0

Have you considered retiring early or leaving your current job? If so, you\\u2019ll want to make sure that you ask yourself these questions before making any rash decisions.

17 questions to consider if you are ready to quit your job

  1. What are your frustrations?\\xa0Before you up and quit, you\\u2019ll want to ask yourself why you really want to quit. What are the underlying causes of your dissatisfaction? Make sure to go deep in your thinking since your first thought is rarely the true reason for your unhappiness. To explore this question further write down every thought and feeling you have surrounding your job for 10 days.\\xa0
  2. How did you get to where you are now?\\xa0Reflect on what led you to your current job and what brought you to it in the first place
  3. How long have you been feeling this way?\\xa0Were you unhappy before the pandemic or is the feeling more recent? Consider whether your feelings are pandemic related. If so, this could mean you are actually seeking more control over your life. You may simply feel burned out and need some time off.
  4. What do you actually want to do?\\xa0How do you want to live your life? Who do you want to be? These questions cut to the core and ensure that you explore your values. You may find that your unhappiness runs deeper than your career choice.
  5. How would your perfect day be different than it is now? Coming up with your perfect day can also help you explore whether you are ready to eliminate all work-related activities. If so, you may be ready to retire.\\xa0
  6. What do your friends and family say?\\xa0Use your support system as a sounding board for your thoughts.
  7. What would you be giving up by quitting?\\xa0If you are thinking of retiring early, think about the costs of healthcare before Medicare and other stabilizing factors that your job brings.\\xa0
  8. What would you gain by quitting?\\xa0Try to steer clear of revenge retirement. It may lead you to a situation that you can\\u2019t come back from. Your negative feelings might pass, so don\\u2019t box yourself into a corner.\\xa0
  9. Have you explored every option with your employer?\\xa0Try negotiating. You may be able to work out reduced hours, higher pay, or other changes in your workplace.
  10. Should you wait until you\\u2019re back in the office to make a decision?\\xa0Be clear with your own needs and desires when considering this question.
  11. Should you quit due to a toxic boss?\\xa0It can be challenging to see a toxic relationship while you are in the thick of the situation. A toxic work environment could mean that it is time for a change.
  12. When should you quit over stress?\\xa0Is stress causing you to lose sleep, enjoy time with your family, or negatively affect your downtime? If your job adversely affects your life and health then you\\u2019ll want to assess why you feel stress.
  13. Are your expectations realistic?\\xa0Can you actually leave your job?
  14. Can you afford to cover your expenses?\\xa0If you can\\u2019t, then you may need to stick it out a bit longer.
  15. Could caring less help? Try setting boundaries in your workday. Define your values and step away from work when needed. and define values.\\xa0
  16. Is now the right time?\\xa0You can empower yourself by filling in the gaps.
  17. Why can\\u2019t you make a decision?\\xa0Set a decision date so that you don\\u2019t let your indecisiveness drag on.

Resources & People Mentioned

Connect with Benjamin Brandt

Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on

Apple Podcasts,\\xa0Stitcher,\\xa0TuneIn,\\xa0Podbean,\\xa0Player FM,\\xa0iHeart, or\\xa0Spotify

'