I’ve worked hard to reach the position I’m in now. In my culture, a large part of social standing and individual identity comes from your choice of career and how successful you are at it.
In addition to, Having had a rough childhood, I’m addicted to stability and a sense of security.
My current employer is quite shady. There are a lot of borderline exploitative policies and the general culture is quite fuck all.
I am okay with work pressure but the lack of transparency and the unnecessary nitpicking is getting to me.
I could sincerely leave this job today and live the next 5 years twiddling my thumbs if I wanted to but I find myself unable to make that choice.
I have a wonderful partner that is happy to take care of us, I’ve got plenty of savings and I have a strong sense of my abilities.
Still,
I think I’m feeling bad that the 12+ years I put in getting to this managerial position will go to waste. And that I will be judged by my peer group for not having a high power career anymore.
I also fear that I’ll lose my identity and the what if “I’m making an impulsive decision” is also troubling me.
I’d appreciate hearing from the community on how you would prepare emotionally for the shift.