Navigating Career Grief: Finding Alignment

A friend recently asked how I got comfortable with the inherently temporary nature of my work as a consultant/contractor. The truth is that it isn’t super comfortable. For me, it is a necessary choice that comes from a place of self-awareness and desire to live a more aligned life.

The one word that summarizes my answer to this deeply complex question: Grief.

Grief has held a cyclical presence in my life since the death of my mom at age 6. I know it well. I know the ways in which it can show up covertly via other emotions or situations – even in a work environment. Grief in the corporate world is real and acknowledging it has been a crucial step in my personal and professional growth.

I’ve noticed people sometimes struggle to articulate complex emotions when it comes to their career - like they think it's silly to FEEL any emotions about work (hi colonial conditioning). Often, what they are describing is grief—an emotion not just tied to the loss of a loved one but also to the professional realm.

When reflecting, I see clear signs that indicated I was dealing with grief (And also burnout!) in my career:

Emotional Exhaustion: I often felt drained and emotionally depleted after work, unable to recover even after weekends.

Persistent Disappointment: Repeated disillusionment when company values didn’t match what was promised.

Loss of Motivation: My enthusiasm for projects I once enjoyed faded.

Sense of Betrayal: Feeling betrayed by leaders who didn’t uphold their stated values was a frequent, painful experience.

Difficulty Moving On: I struggled to let go of negative work experiences, feeling stuck and replaying past disappointments.

Physical Symptoms: Unexplained headaches, stomach issues, and insomnia were physical manifestations of my emotional pain.

Isolation: Withdrawing from colleagues and avoiding social interactions at work.

By understanding my own experience with grief, I found a path that honors my values and well-being, allowing me to navigate the corporate landscape on my own terms. This journey has taught me that it's okay to prioritize my mental and emotional well-being over societal conditioning. I choose a path that aligns with my values and brings me peace, even if it doesn't fit the conventional mold of success.

And I want that for everyone – whatever it looks like – a new position, a new company, a new industry – anything that makes you move out of grief and into a more aligned life.

Your Biggest Cheerleader,

Becky

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