The Summer holidays are often seen as a time for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you’re planning a local staycation or an overseas getaway, the summer break offers a perfect opportunity to take a step back from your daily grind and assess your current career situation. It’s essential to use this time wisely, allowing yourself to reflect on what makes you unhappy in your current role and to formulate a plan for your next steps.
The Importance of Reflection
In the hustle and bustle of everyday work life, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and make decisions based on emotions like frustration, anger, or annoyance. These emotional decisions can lead to hasty job changes that might not necessarily be the best move for your career. Taking a break during the summer provides the mental space needed to make more rational and thoughtful decisions about your future.
Steps to Assess Your Current Situation
- Identify What Makes You Unhappy
- Take time to pinpoint the specific aspects of your current job that are causing dissatisfaction. Is it the workload, the company culture, lack of growth opportunities, or something else?
- Write down these factors to have a clear understanding of what you want to change.
- Evaluate Your Career Goals
- Reflect on your long-term career goals. Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
- Consider how your current role aligns with these goals. Are you on the right path, or do you need a change to achieve your objectives?
- Research Alternative Options
- Look into different roles or companies that might offer what you’re missing in your current position.
- Make a list of the qualifications, skills, and experiences required for these roles and assess how you measure up.
- Formulate a Plan
- If you decide that a change is necessary, develop a clear plan for your job search. This should include updating your CV, networking, and identifying potential employers.
- Consider seeking advice from a career coach, trusted mentor or a specialist recruiter in your industry to help guide your decision-making process.
The Benefits of a Well-Considered Decision
Making a well-thought-out decision about your career can have several benefits:
- Reduced Stress: Knowing that you’ve taken the time to thoroughly assess your situation and plan your next steps can reduce anxiety and stress.
- Better Opportunities: By carefully considering your options, you’re more likely to find a role that truly fits your skills, interests, and long-term career goals.
- Increased Satisfaction: Moving to a job that aligns with your goals and values can lead to greater job satisfaction and overall happiness.
Conclusion: Take Your Time
The Summer is a great time to pause, reflect, and plan your career moves. Instead of making decisions based on temporary emotions, use this period to consider your options thoughtfully. If you’re still unhappy after this reflection, you’ll be in a better position to find the right opportunity that aligns with your career aspirations.
By taking the time to assess your situation and formulate a plan, you can ensure that your next career move is a positive and fulfilling one.
If you’re contemplating a career move and are open to discussing your options or want to get a feel of the market, I’m here for a straightforward, commitment-free chat. Send me an email at slowes@levitaterecruitment.com to arrange a call.
My views are based on my 17 years+ of recruiting for Accountancy Practice and Insolvency professionals.
For advice about your career options, speak to Scott Lowes at Levitate Recruitment, specialists in placing practice-trained accountants and insolvency professionals across the UK, and find the right role to suit your ambitions.
