The Grass Is Not Always Greener: Why Staying at Your Job Is Worth It

Many people are often tempted to leave their current job in search of something better. In fact, more workers are expected to change jobs in the next 12 months than the year previous, according to a recent survey by PwC, with 26 percent of workers planning to change jobs, up from 19 percent in 2022.

The survey revealed that younger workers are more likely to anticipate a job change than their older counterparts, which 35 percent of Gen Z employees and 31 percent of Millennial employees stating they were planning a career change.

It's important to remember that the grass is not always greener on the other side, and staying at your job has its own rewards. Think about why you want to switch jobs – is it too difficult? Not what you expected? Poor work life balance? Carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks before making any major career decisions. Read on to identify why you may be feeling like a career change is the solution, and what you can do to work on fixing the problem.

A change in the season is not reason enough to leave your job 

The beginning of the year or changing seasons can cause feelings of restlessness in all aspects of life – both professional and personal, which prompt many people to reevaluate their career. But before you start filling out applications, take a moment to reflect on what is causing you to feel unhappy in your current role. This could be everything from a poor work life balance to not feeling like you are making advancements in your career. Have a discussion with your current employer to address these issues. Are you burnt out from a commute? Looking for a more flexible schedule? Feeling like you’re spinning your wheels professionally? See if your current employer will work with you on addressing these issues before finding another company.

Your next job is not the magical solution to an amazing work life

As with all major life decisions, a new career will change other aspects of your lifestyle. While the new job may fit some requirements, it will change other things that you enjoyed about your current career, like time spent with your colleagues, favorite workflows, and more. Be sure to look at the big picture when considering a new job – you may realize that it's easier and more enjoyable to stay put!

Companies are desperate to fill jobs 

Now more than ever, companies are desperate to find talent to fill their open positions fast, which means they might not be as thorough in their interview process to make sure each potential hire is the correct fit. As a job seeker, it is your responsibility to ensure that the role presented is the perfect fit for you, and you’ll have to ask tough questions to understand the role and expectations of what they are looking for to fill the position. Do your research to decide if a job is a good fit.

Reframe your thinking 

Here are some questions that you can ask yourself when considering a career change that could save you the hassle of looking for a new career:

How can I be happy in my current job? 

There will always be things in your job, both current and future, that you will not like, but you can make an impact by changing the context of your thinking. Take some time to reflect on what really bothers you in your current job, and look for solutions to fix those problems, instead of throwing in the towel. Sometimes even thinking about a problem from a different angle is enough to find a new appreciation for your current career.

How can I influence my employer to become a better place to work? 

Don’t forget that you can make a difference with your employer, and you can have an impact! Share your feedback and ideas with your manager or HR representative. Be specific about what changes you would like to see and how they can benefit the company and its employees. You can also encourage your colleagues to share their feedback and ideas. Additionally, you can suggest employee engagement activities such as team-building events, training programs, or volunteer opportunities. Lead by example and be a positive role model for your colleagues. By demonstrating good work ethic and promoting a positive work culture, you can inspire others to do the same.

Work with Orion Talent to find your forever career 

The grass isn’t always greener on the other side, but your side can be – if you just water it. Take the time to really reflect on why you’re feeling the itch to switch jobs, and then work on addressing the problem head on, instead of jumping ship.

Orion Talent is committed to helping transitioning military, veterans, and industry professionals find career opportunities that best fit their background, skills, and preferences across every industry. Our recruiters are here to help find the best job for each individual and take care to place candidates in careers where they can grow professionally and find satisfaction. Find out more about our services and register with us today.

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