For some, getting unstuck might be more challenging than others.
Extenuating Circumstances
The three main categories of extenuating circumstances are:
- Finances: You may be the breadwinner for your family and cutting hours is not an option.
- Spouse/Significant Other: You may need to consider the potential impact on your significant other’s job if you are seeking employment elsewhere.
- Children: The ability to arrange childcare for a different shift schedule may make switching up your career challenging. Your kids may be in school and change may require them to change schools.
Advice for Extenuating Circumstances
- Talk to your spouse/significant other/family support system
- Share your unhappiness and what’s causing it
- Tell them what would make you happy
Support Is Impossible If You Don’t Relay Your Needs
Having those uncomfortable conversations and expressing your emotions and needs is key to getting UNSTUCK. Bring your loved ones in to support you in your current unhappiness, brainstorm resources or possibilities, and walk alongside you as you research and determine what is best for both your family AND you.
Making career changes for the betterment of your mental health and happiness can have a positive effect on the way you interact with your family. Your willingness to grow and change your workplace situation will be an example of how hard work and not being afraid of temporary discomfort can get them UNSTUCK in situations they will inevitably face as they grow.
Don’t Let Extenuating Circumstances Keep You From Setting Goals
You may need to negotiate with your support system at first. Change is a process and your circumstances may take longer to reach your goal than you would like, but don’t let that stop you from making a goal!
It’s amazing how your emotional health changes for the better when you know that your current situation is not permanent, but rather a stepping stone to help you reach your ultimate goal.
Do you have experience getting unstuck in your career when decisions aren’t always black and white? How did you handle it and what advice would you give?
