This past year, Kiera and I both shared that we left our jobs for other opportunities. We didn’t realize at the time that a Great Resignation was happening all across the country.
The Great Resignation by the Numbers:
No, workers aren't quitting because we are lazy. In many cases, the ripple effects of the pandemic forced people out of work due to the inability to find childcare, mandated shutdowns, and other pandemic-related business closures.
For those who willingly quit their jobs, there may be a correlation with prioritizing mental and physical health (for the win!). Many employees are tired of overworking, feeling burned out, and being under-compensated for their efforts.
An economist at U.C. Berkeley believes the Great Resignation stems from how the pandemic and remote work has forced us to re-evaluate how we view our life and careers. It has shown us that there may be a better way...
TLDR: You're allowed to change jobs if you aren't happy.
How Work Impacts Our Mental & Physical Health
Quitting is not a realistic option for most people and just thinking about looking for a new job is exhausting. Still, we can't ignore the impact our work has on our health and wellbeing.
You're not going to go for that run if you're tired from working overtime to make ends meet.
You won't have the energy to play with your kids if you have to work through lunch because of staffing issues.
You may be hard on yourself after being the only one with your background in the boardroom.
Even if you prioritize fitness, your recovery may be a wreck if you can't get in a healthy amount of sleep because you're working late.
If you've been considering looking for new career opportunities, maybe now is the time to dust off that resume or CV.
And if you need reassurance, you are not trapped and you deserve to work for a company that treats people well.