📢 TWO WEEKS NOTICE 📢 The American job market has experienced the most significant loss in over 50 years, with 38 million workers quitting their jobs in 2021. While many refer to it as the “Great Resignation," we prefer to use the term the Great Re-Evaluation – a time when workers re-evaluate what they want for themselves and their careers. And BTW, it's not just for employees. The Great Re-Evaluation is also a time when employers can re-evaluate their policies and make changes to keep top talent. We asked our community to share their Great Re-Evaluation stories. Stories are anonymous. ➡️ Why did you decide to quit your job? After five years working at a highly toxic, underpaying, exploitative company, my family had the opportunity to relocate out of state (my husband got a new job offer) and I took that as a sign to resign. I’d contemplated quitting many times in the past but remained for various reasons (a new baby, my spouse was laid off, I was offered flexible work, etc…). I basically grew up while working at this organization. I signed my first apartment lease, got engaged and then married, and even had my first baby during my tenure. Looking back, I wish I had resigned while on maternity leave so I would not have been robbed of precious years as a young family, opportunities to grow professionally with a clear career path, and, transparently, with my soul still intact. It was a learning experience I’ll take with me into any future endeavor. Now I know the things to look for while interviewing and signs to get out faster because a toxic culture doesn’t get better quickly. ➡️ What was the last straw? Covid and quarantine made me realize that the pain, stress, anxiety, and mental repercussions I had to endure at my organization were not worth it. I was working 60+ hour weeks, often on the weekends, and responding to “urgent” emails at 3 am. I rarely saw my baby, spent time with my spouse, or took care of myself. I finally quit when it struck me that my job had completely taken over my thoughts, my time, and any ounce of energy I had left. I realized I wasn’t living life anymore. All of this, coupled with my spouse's relocation, led me to take action. ➡️ How did you quit? I submitted a letter of resignation. Initially, my boss pretended to be happy for me, but as it turns out, she rushed to her executive to try and negotiate terms for me to continue working for them. And no, it wasn’t a long-overdue promotion or raise, but rather the “opportunity” to work from home in the middle of a pandemic (when the whole world was already doing so) and a new laptop… 🙄 I am still harassed to this day by my former boss and coworkers. I’ve had to block them on social media and ignore their calls. ➡️ Was there anything your company could have done to retain you? No. The issues were so ingrained within the executive management team, that nothing would have convinced me to stay. It was a deplorable work environment I wouldn’t wish on anyone.
This so resignates with me, I’m still living this but as a single parent and the sole income, not too many choices! It’s even more sad when employers exploit it because they know you need the job. Sad for us women! Work like you don’t have have kids (or a life) and parent like you don’t have a job!
Great Re-Evaluation - that's the truth of the moment people acting in their best interest.
Is this going to turn into a book? These stories of re-evaluation are enlightening.
You did not have to go to the extreme & quit. Just tell your employer what you said to us and SCALE BACK. If your employer does not like it, yes then quit. But at least give your employer a chance
It always haunted me as as a single mom of two growing girls and a backbone to my family. Not too many choice except living life as good as possible. Pray to my girl that they are growing well emotionally.
Basically cheating your wife with your job!! Glad you quit!
Thank you
Director - US Controllership | Reinsurance | Accounting | FINOP | DE&I Advocate | People Leader
1ySo I left my old job and joined Aon - got my life back here. You should check out the recent openings at Aon, especially for moms and everyone who is struggling to find flexibility. It’s such an amazing organization! Amen to living your best life!