2008 is fast approaching, and that means it's almost time for everyone's favorite holiday ritual - New Year's Resolutions. I've always wondered how seriously people take the practice. Given the dearth of consumer goods that target it, I imagine not very. I don't blame them. Reflecting thoughtfully on the past year is usually a bit of a chore, especially when you're basking in the warm glow of holiday bliss.
Still, it's a healthy thing to do, and New Year's day is a great time to do it. After all, our lives don't have "pause" buttons, so you've got to take a breath when you can. At least one employment specialist agrees. Philadelphia-based outplacement firm, Right Management, recently issued a press release in which they listed six notions that employees should consider when reviewing their careers. All of them pose surprisingly sincere, tough and worthwhile questions. But one in particular stands out.
Katherine Graham, the late legendary publisher of the Washington Post, said that career happiness is to love what you do, and feel that it matters. It seems as though Right Management's President and COO, Doug Matthews, agrees. When taking stock of the their career, Matthews urges employees to, “Consider how much you enjoy the work you do, your career opportunities, and the culture of the organization. If you’re not happy in your role or with your employer, a job change may be something to consider. You may want to examine changing industries, job functions, or consider getting the education you need to do this.”
Cynics might easily point out that Matthews's motives for making this point are self serving. After all, any person who decides to leave his or her job is a potential client for Right. But Matthews's philosophy is a good one, and one that I think people should take to heart. It's ok to leave a job because you hate it.
Obviously, it's not that simple. Leaving your job is tough. So tough, in fact, that many people would rather stay put than endure the insecurity of today's job market. Still, it's nice to know that some people and organizations see life in terms of opportunities rather than obstacles.
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