Recently, it seems all over main stream and social media the current topic of discussion has been the Great Resignation. What is the Great Resignation? Well, it appears to be a movement urging people to quit their jobs en masses. Now, according to Monster.com, which is a global employment website, there was a recent survey that reported almost 95% of employees are considering changing careers. For some businesses this is a bad situation that is becoming worse since this recent trend has diminished the ability to retain good people.
So the question is "why is this happening?" Well, there are a multitude of reasons. I will focus on one particular cause for this current trend. It would appear this pandemic has shown people a better quality of life working remotely from any location of their choosing, versus the usual mundane travelling back and forth to the office and having to deal with office drama. People may be more hesitant to return to the blandness of a restricted desk-job with the usual limited personal freedom, which they have become more accustomed to, especially during this pandemic.
Another positive result of this pandemic has allowed some people during their down-time to develop new skills and passions. They may wish to find roles that allow them to incorporate those interests into a new career path. Some may be seeking roles that require less of their time working while allocating more time for their families. And finally, some people just don’t want to work.
This break from normalcy caused by the pandemic has allowed people the opportunity to reflect on their previous work related frustrations and being burnt out. Freed from their daily grind they have had the time and opportunity to find possible alternatives that may result in finding happiness and fulfillment in a new career.
One component of the Great Resignation has been the consideration of seeking an opportunity to be self-employed. Although this is an enticing opportunity, it would require a bold move on their part. One thing to keep in mind are some notable challenges with being self-employed. One of the glaring challenges is ensuring that you are extremely self-disciplined. Having the flexibility to make your own schedule is nice, but the temptation to do something more fun is always there. If a person slacks off too much, the odds of succeeding in their new business venture will be challenging. Being self-employed while working from home does save time, gas, and money. However, it does eliminate the positive attribute of the time a commute provides that allows us the opportunity to shift our thinking from business matters to personal matters. One glaring challenge working from home would be maintaining a balance between work life and home life.
If a person is seeking a career change that does not involve working from home or being self-employed then there has never been a better time to seek alternative careers. With the current market trend it appears businesses are crying out for qualified people and have offered various incentives. It only makes sense that workers might be experiencing more freedom and confidence in the job market. This appears to be leading many people to make bold career moves that they wouldn’t likely considered prior to the pandemic. There is nothing wrong with people seeking a better quality of life, higher pay and the ability to spend their time on work they find more meaningful.
For employers, competition for good people and market incentives creates a better quality of life for all involved and most assuredly will result in more productivity. Like the saying goes “A Happy Employee – A Successful Business”. I know, that’s supposed to say “A Happy Wife – A Happy Life” but I thought changing the wording slightly would make my point.
On the topic of making a major career decision. I would like to take this opportunity to speak from a personal and Christian perspective when I have wrestled with major career decisions. I have discovered seeking out the guidance and being sensitive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit is imperative. Being a Christian does not exempt us from making wise decisions. I love reading the Book of Proverbs since it is full of counsel about the importance of gaining wisdom and insight. Our Heavenly Father desires for us to have not only spiritual maturity and wisdom but also wisdom that relates to making decisions in our lives.
Some of our best decision making is birthed in an atmosphere of prayer. A heart should always be pondering the choices that represents God’s Will for our lives. Having to make big decisions allows us to partner with God in the decision-making process. Prayer is our lifeline to finding and fulfilling God’s perfect Will in all we do. Let’s reflect on Philippians 4: verses 6 and 7 which states "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Another important factor for a Christian when making a major decision is seeking out counsel from other believers they trust. The Book of Proverbs repeatedly reminds us to seek Godly counsel before making decisions. Let’s reflect on Proverbs 12: verse 15 which states “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who heeds counsel is wise.”
Finally, I believe our best decisions will take time. Whenever possible, take your time so you can mull over your decision. In these situations I would encourage you to meditate on Proverbs 13: verse 16 which states. “A wise man thinks ahead, a fool doesn’t.” Also, let us reflect on Proverbs 14: verse 15 which states “The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps.”
In closing, allow me to quote Peter Ducker who wrote “Don’t make snap decisions, The spur-of-the-moment decisions are merely guesses. Before announcing a decision, it is best to take a little time, sleep on it first. God may have other plans.”
I hope and pray this has brought inspiration to you, specifically when you are considering a major career choice. May God Bless you and your loved ones and give your peace in your decisions.
Amen.
About The Author: Steve is a Christian Blogger, Videographer, and Personal Trainer. His content creation focuses on Societal Lifestyles, Health/Fitness and Faith.
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