Tomorrow is my final day at a job that I’ve loved for 8 years. I’ve imagined this moment many times. Wondering what life would be like if I decided to move on. But, I had convinced myself that this was it – I was a lifer! So, when I decided to leave, I surprised everyone around me – including myself.

First off – I recognize that I am lucky – I’ve had a job that I’ve loved for 8 years. Not many can say that. And though there’s been many ups and downs, I am so thankful for my experience and growth here. I am also thankful and appreciative to have had the best coworkers that I will probably ever have in my life.

Now I’m sure you’re probably wondering, If it’s so great – why are you leaving? The truth is, in my comfort I started to lose myself. Since becoming a mom, every decision I’ve made is about my kids. It’s about my family. So, there I am, at a job that I love, surrounded by people I love – yet, I found myself stressed and unhappy. Then the stress began to follow me out of the workplace and into my home.  Another layer upon my shoulders.

When you feel a certain way, you have to really take the time to take a look at yourself. I was in a funk and gaslighting myself based on my love and loyalty for my employer and my coworkers. I am a person of comfort and though I can easily adapt, I will avoid change if I can. But, I started to recognize that I had no choice. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t shake the funk. I realized that I had reached a plateau and it was time to find a new mountain to climb.

To be the best mom, wife, and friend to the people I loved, I needed to take a chance on myself. Years ago I had career goals – and over time, in my comfort, the goals started to fade away. They seemed less attainable. But, as I started the interview process of what will now be my new job, I started to feel invigorated again. I saw a future where I could potentially reach the goals I set for myself so long ago. And while I knew this move would shake up my home life a lot, I also knew that I owed it to my children – to show them they never have to settle.

Whether it’s work or personal relationships – comfort isn’t always good. Recognizing that you need to leave a comfortable situation is hard. In the words of Patty Smyth and Don Henley, “There’s a reason why people don’t stay where they are, baby, sometimes love just ain’t enough.”

And my love for my workplace – a place that I spend the majority of my days, wasn’t enough anymore. I needed more, and I am finally letting go of the guilt I feel for leaving. This new chapter brings about many changes for my family – pushing us all out of our comfortable routine. But, my hope is that in turn, we will finally find more balance as a family.

So, here’s to new beginnings! I’m scared, but ready. 😊