Harriette Cole: I want to quit my tech job. Am I going to regret it?
Plus: My parents don't understand my career path.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I’ve dedicated nearly a decade to the tech industry, diligently working for the same company. Recently, however, I’ve felt increasingly dissatisfied and unfulfilled in my role.
Despite my apprehensions, I gathered the courage to draft a resignation letter.
Now, uncertainty clouds my thoughts. What if I struggle to secure another position in this competitive field? Will I regret leaving behind the stability and routine I’ve relied on for so long?
Balancing these concerns with my current living situation — a mortgage to pay and a growing family of four to support — makes this decision even more daunting.
I would appreciate any advice you could offer in this career crossroads.
— Uncertain in My Career
DEAR UNCERTAIN IN MY CAREER: Take a pause before you do anything.
I recommend that you do your research to determine what you want to do next. Is there another company that interests you in your field? Perhaps you can find excitement for your work if you take your talents to a different company that may value you more.
You should look for a job while you still have your current job. I do not think you should resign without finding another job first.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I’ve been passionate about travel and adventure all my life. After completing my studies in journalism, I decided to pursue a career as a travel blogger.
Over the past five years, I’ve poured my heart into building a successful online presence, sharing personal stories and insights with readers worldwide.
Despite the fulfillment and achievements I’ve found in this field, my parents, who come from a traditional background, have always held hopes that I would pursue a more conventional career path. They frequently express concerns about the stability of freelancing and the financial risks involved.
Recently, during a family gathering, my parents reiterated their concerns, emphasizing the uncertainties of my profession. Despite my achievements and financial stability through sponsorships and partnerships, I feel the weight of their expectations and a sense of being misunderstood.
How can I effectively communicate my passion for travel blogging to my parents? What steps can I take to earn their support while remaining true to my career aspirations?
— Seeking Parental Understanding
DEAR SEEKING PARENTAL UNDERSTANDING: How transparent have you been with your parents about your financial situation? That may be what will eventually give them some solace.
What parents want most is for their children to be safe and secure. Your parents want that for you, and their framework is what they know, which is why they keep urging you to do something traditional; they don’t understand blogging and its potential for earning revenue.
Teach them about your business, and inform them of how lucrative it has become for you. Assure them that you want to be financially independent, and this path is making that possible for you.
Be sure to let them know you understand their concerns and that you are being smart and strategic, even though you are working in a more modern field that they are not familiar with.
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.