Remorse After a Job Change: Navigating Your Second Chance
Navigating career shifts: dealing with post-transition regret
Taking a leap and changing jobs can be exhilarating, but it can also lead to feelings of regret—and that's perfectly normal. According to a survey, over one-third of employees have second-guessed their job change[1]. So, what do you do when you find yourself in this predicament? Here are some strategies to help you decide whether to stay or go again.
1. Give the new job enough timeIt's not uncommon to encounter some frustration during the initial days of a new job. Perhaps you're experiencing adjustment stress or your brain is missing the familiarity of the old. Stefanie Bickert, an expert on Indeed, advises that you should never dismiss the new position too hastily. Instead, give it several weeks to settle in and get a clearer picture of your new role[2].
2. Don't romanticize the pastInitial impressions can be deceiving, and it's easy to idealize the old job when comparing it to the new one. Keep in mind that the grass might not always be greener, and it often takes time to truly understand the pros and cons of your current and past positions[3].
3. Improve your own situationIf you're unsatisfied with your new job, take steps to make things work for you. Start by openly communicating with your manager about your concerns, such as addressing a specific project, seeking more flexibility or requesting a mentor[2]. Additionally, focus on building relationships with colleagues, and set small, achievable goals for yourself to help boost your morale.
4. Interpret warning signs correctlyWhile some feelings of discontent might be temporary, persistent exhaustion that seems out of place could be a red flag. If you're still struggling to find your footing even after making adjustment, it may be time to reconsider your decision. However, keep in mind that initial challenges can be common, so it's essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully[2].
5. Weigh alternativesIf you've given the new job a fair chance, but it's still not a good fit, it might be time to explore new opportunities. This might include seeking out roles within the same company or looking for positions elsewhere. Remember, it's not uncommon to return to a former employer, so long as there's a suitable role available[2].
6. Be lenient with yourselfMaking a poor decision is part of the professional growth process. Learn from the experience, and remember that it's essential to treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Create a list of "red lines" based on what you've learned from this experience, and use it to guide future job decisions[2]. This will help you maintain a clear and strategic perspective in your career planning.
Source: ntv.de, Amelie Breitenhuber, dpa
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[1] Reputable employer review site, Monster.[2] Stefanie Bickert, Career Expert at Indeed.[3] Psychological principle about the rose-tinted effect of our memories.
In the process of self-development and career growth, it's essential to review employment policies and community policies when evaluating job changes. A strategic approach for personal growth would include considering reskilling or upskilling through education-and-self-development programs to improve one's situation in a new job. ProperFiguring out your long-term career goals and weighing them against the new job's prospects, as well as allowing for enough time to adjust to the new work environment, can aid in making informed decisions and fostering career development.
