6 Things I Learned About Myself After I Quit my Job
Anyone else having a hard time balancing work and life, especially lately? You’re not alone. Before I dive into what I learned after quitting my job, here's a quick backstory on what led me there.
The lies I told myself
The harder you work the more people will respect you
It’s normal to feel tired and stressed all the time
Work should always come first, then you can find time for yourself
I’ve always had a hard time prioritizing myself and my time. I put my job on a pedestal and prided myself on working myself into the ground. Even saying this “out loud” makes it sound silly, doesn’t it? I never made time for doctor’s appointments or for taking a lunch break. My 10+ hour work day was worn as a badge of honor externally, despite all the red flags surrounding me.
I accepted that being stressed and tired all the time came with the territory- ‘this is what must happen for me to make money and be accomplished’, I thought. There were a few things that pushed me over the edge though… and I realized this can’t be right.
The Warning Signs
My company at the time gave us an entire week off during the holidays. That break, I had grand plans to clean, work out and spend time with friends and loved ones and instead I slept, ate and watched TV. I could not move from my couch other than on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and even those days were a struggle. I faked a smile and had multiple cups of coffee to try and feel somewhat awake. I felt so physically and emotionally drained and realized that was my body trying to tell me something. A few months went on and it wasn’t until life got a bit more in my face that I knew something had to change.
A few family members have been sick throughout the years and recently, have required some more health attention. I was trying to juggle work and going to their appointments, seeing them when they were in the hospital, and in general, just BE with them more. I mean why did my job come before my family? Why did a doctor’s appointment force me to spend time with them?
Sadly, my grandma passed away a few months ago and that was it for me. I was heartbroken that I did not make time for more weekly dinners with my grandparents, but what really struck me was her services. Let me tell you why. Not once was anything said about her job, or how hard she worked or how much she made. Instead, everyone talked about her dancing (she loved to dance all the time, we even played salsa music at her wake) and how she loved cooking for the family, how she lit up the room, how she made everyone feel special.
At her funeral, the priest mentioned one way we could honor her would be to do more of what she would do, and that way, she would always be with us and live on. That moment changed me. The first few things that popped into my head were: spend more time with family, live life to the absolute fullest, don’t give a crap what people think, and always dance.
About a month later, I quit my job. I pressed pause to spend time with loved ones and planned my wedding. I relaxed and I cleaned, but it was a time of truly looking inward and giving myself space to think and feel. Sometimes it felt weird, and I was not always productive, but to have that time to reconnect with myself has been a true blessing.
What I’ve Learned
I started freelancing a few weeks ago and while I’m still getting used to it, I feel hopeful and excited about the potential of what my life could be. Every morning, I carve out me time, which has consisted of 15-20 minutes of movement, usually the Peloton or Melissa Wood Health, making green juice and journaling. I step away from my desk to have lunch and have even gone out to eat with my parents and grandparents more. I have so much more energy and time to dedicate to things I feel passionate about. While I am still learning about myself and this time, here’s what I know is true for me now in the moment.
I actually love to work - I like to use my brain and be creative
I love learning, especially about business, health and wellness
I can find at least 15 minutes a day to do something for me
My family, my health and my wellbeing are my priorities
I can set boundaries and still be successful and respected
The world won’t crumble if I don’t answer that email right away
This isn’t isn’t intended to make you quit your job, though if its not serving you, I am all for it (let’s talk!), but instead hoping to inspire you to take time for yourself, look inward and do what makes you happy.
Happy Monday! xx