Question:
I’m unhappy at work but I’ve been with the same company for many years and I’m afraid I’ll be giving up my job security if I leave now. What should I do? Should I prioritize my happiness or my job security?
ANSWER:
Let’s talk about Batman.
Since 1943 Batman has starred in 30 animated features, 13 live action movies, 4 TV series, at least 2 radio dramas, video games, comic books, and more. Generations of children have grown up with the bat emblem plastered all over their lunch boxes, bed sheets, and velcro sneakers. Just how many times has Batman saved the world? Who knows. We lost count years ago. The important thing to acknowledge here is that Batman is objectively and indisputably well qualified for the role of superhero. Do you really think that worrying about job security would be a good use of his time?
Of course not! And guess what? It’s not a good use of your time either.
Most of us will likely agree that Batman’s employment is secure, but it’s not because of his relationship with an employer. Nope. Batman’s job security is rooted in his skills, talents, experiences, and achievements. In other words, his superpowers! You are no different than Batman. You have a unique set of superpowers that make you valuable. It’s not your relationship with your employer that makes you secure. It’s your skills, abilities, and achievements that do. In fact, if your current employer is holding you back from progressing within your chosen field, I’d argue that staying put could be limiting your future employment options, making you less secure than you realize.
Still not convinced? Here’s what I want you to do. Start a running list of your own objective, quantifiable, and concrete achievements. Try to write down at least 10 items. Then take the key words and phrases from that list and start searching for job postings that match. You’ll likely find that you’re in greater demand than you realize. That demand is where your real job security lies. Security doesn’t come from your employer, it comes from inside of you.
Now stop making yourself miserable and go find a new job.
Keep going, friends! You’ve got this.