Time to Plan Your Exit in 5 Easy Steps
In my experience working with people who want to leave academia and pivot to work that is more fulfilling, more meaningful toward creating societal change and worthwhile impact, but also less stressful and with more work-life balance... the big barriers are time, energy, health, motivation, and clarity! I say TIME is often related to the rest of those in the pack - with more time off, you find energy, you're in better health, you have time to think! Time to think results in clarity and renewed inspiration and motivation. So, LET'S GET STARTED IN GETTING YOU TIME TO PLAN!
2. Exercise Conscious choice
So, I ask you, dear reader: How often do you also choose yourself as a priority?
Your choices indicate your priorities – your values!!
Conscious choice is making choices – intentionally – that are aligned with your values. You should be one of those values… you should be valued above all!!
If you’re being swayed and swung into different directions in a day, then that’s not exercising a choice.
How can you move with vision or intention so more of your day is guided by choices that reflect your values? Because right now, you’re simply slipping into roles, not exercising conscious choice.
What’s filling up your life? What are you neglecting this week that is actually a priority? Why?
That’s a choice that states it’s not a priority or you would do it.
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So, slow down, pause, seek some quiet, and reflect on what matters. Ask for help or drop things that you don’t have to do.
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The more you make conscious choices, the more you will feel self-love and acceptance
3. Become aware of your values
We work on this in Life After Academia
4. Make some moves toward your goals
5. Commit to action
It is fine!
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You are allowed to prioritize yourself.
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As a client said, we too often accept requests from employers. We will move our schedule around to accommodate students, our colleagues, and our bosses.
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However, how often do you accept requests from your body and mind and health? How often do you move your schedule around to accommodate rest, reading for enjoyment, going for a leisurely walk, etc.
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I'll bet those activities are not given the kind of locked-in space in your diary/calendar. I bet those are the first to go when work or family needs beckon.
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It's your life! You need to ensure your own cup of life is full before giving to others.