Are you feeling stuck in your job? But do you stay because of the great pay or benefits? If you answered yes to both, then you could be a victim of “golden handcuffs.” The phrase “golden handcuffs” is used to describe when someone makes so much money (or receives such great benefits) that they’re willing to stay in a job they don’t like. Unfortunately, being content with a job you don’t like is not the same as being happy. If you’re unhappy in your job, it’s time to make a change.

So today, we’re going to discuss how to break out of the golden handcuffs.

 

How To Break Free From The Golden Handcuffs

 

Identify if you’re in a job with golden handcuffs

The first step is identifying if you’re in a job that has golden handcuffs. If you are, it’s important to realize that you’re not alone. Many people are in the same boat as you. It can be difficult to break free from the handcuffs, but it’s important to remember that you have the power to make a change.

Some signs that you’re in a job with golden handcuffs include:

  • You’re unhappy with your job but you stay because of the money
  • You feel like you can’t leave your job because you need the health insurance
  • You’re not able to pursue your dreams because your job pays so well

If you identify with any of these, then it’s time to start thinking about making a change. More often than not, people stay in jobs they don’t like because they’re afraid of change. But change can be a good thing. It can lead you to a happier and more fulfilling life.

 

Brainstorm career options

Womain writing on post-it notes

If you’re unhappy in your job, it’s important to find something that you’re passionate about. What are your interests? What are your skills? Once you know the answers to these questions, you can start looking for jobs that fit those criteria.

It’s also important to think about what you want in a job. Do you want more responsibility? Do you want to work fewer hours? Knowing what you want is crucial in finding a job that you’ll be happy with.

If you’re not sure what you want to do, that’s okay. There are plenty of resources out there to help you figure it out. You can take career quizzes, read books about different careers, or even talk to a career counselor. As long as you take the time to figure out what you want, you’ll be on the right track. Try to create a list of at least five different career options that you would be happy with.

An example list for marketing jobs might look like this:

  • Social media manager
  • Event planner
  • Public relations specialist
  • Fundraiser
  • Content manager

 

Create a plan

After brainstorming different career options, it’s time to create a plan. This plan should include your goals and a timeline of when you want to achieve them.

For example, your goal might be to find a job in your field of interest within the next six months. To achieve this goal, you might create a plan that looks something like this:

  • Research different jobs in your field of interest
  • Update your resume and cover letter
  • Start applying for jobs
  • Go on interviews
  • Accept a job offer

Remember, it’s important to be realistic when creating your plan. If you set unrealistic goals, you’re less likely to achieve them. If you’re not sure what’s realistic, talk to a career counselor or someone else who can help you create a plan.

 

Make the move

Once you have a plan, it’s time to make the move. This can be a scary step, but it’s important to remember that you’re in control. You can do this.

All you’ve got to do is keep a few things you should keep in mind. First, it’s okay to be scared. Change is scary, but it can also be exciting. Secondly, take your time. Don’t feel like you have to make a decision right away. You can always get help by talking to a career counselor, coach, or someone else who can help you through the process.

And finally, believe in yourself. You have the power to make a change.

 

Conclusion For Breaking Free From The Golden Handcuffs

Making a career change can be a big decision. But it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming one. If you take your time and create a plan, you’ll be on your way to finding a job that you love. And once you find that job, you’ll be glad you made the change.