This year has changed the way most of us work. Many people shifted to working from home. Many were laid off, furloughed, or given paid break until business opened back up.

Now, as business and states open back up, it’s back to work. There are many reasons this may not be something you’re looking forward to.

If your work environment is negative, you may feel conflicted. You know work is necessary, but the thought of returning causes anxiety.

If your job is just not fulfilling for you, the last few months may have reinforced that there’s something else you want to do, even if you don’t know exactly what that is yet.

If you enjoyed more flexibility recently, you may not be ready to give that up.

The events of 2020 have created room for reflection and evaluation. And your career should certainly be part of that.

If you’re not excited to head back to work, take some time to intentionally reflect on why, and set some goals for what you do want.

1. Identify the specific things about work that you don’t want to go back to. This could be people, tasks, the hours, the commute, etc.
2. For each of those things, identify which ones can be changed. For example, depending on your location, a similar commute would be involved even if you changed jobs. Note which ones can potentially be changed if you stay at the job, and which ones would require finding a new job.
3. Write down your professional values – those things that are important to you in a job. These can include environment, pay, type of work, etc.
4. Write down your career goals. What do you want to accomplish? Where do you want to be in 5 years?

Reflect on whether you see potential in your current job to achieve your goals and if it aligns with your values. Also note that there may be potential with the same company, just in a different role.

From here, you can start having conversations with your current employer about possible changes. Make sure that you are prepared for these conversations with identified problems AND potential solutions. Don’t expect them to have thought through the issues and be able to solve the problems they may not be aware of.

If you decide it’s time to find a new job, make sure you are clear on your goals and values so that you can find a new job that fits and will bring you the fulfillment you’re seeking. You’ll want to be clear on what you want so that you can find it, instead of finding a job and trying to fit into it.

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It covers the entire job search process from building confidence, to resumes and networking, to interviews and negotiating offers, with clear steps along the way. It teaches you exactly how to intentionally find the right job for you (instead of trying to fit into a job) and how to sell yourself to potential employers.

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