Today marks the first day of the last week of my career at a major Financial Services Company – six and a half years after starting with this organisation and over 10 years into a career path I once wanted more than anything else!
Why? Because I want to be Happy…
Let me get things straight – 90% of the time, I was really happy in the specialised job I performed and I can honestly say I gave it my all and learnt so much during this time. You know that elusive question that gets asked in almost every job interview? – “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” Well, 5 years ago, I would have said I saw myself as head of Department in my specialist field!
And today? I find myself looking in a different direction…
Although I had a really supportive boss and some great colleagues, I struggled to find purpose in the role I was performing. I clearly understood the importance and felt passionate about my work, but I constantly felt that it wasn’t taken very seriously. It’s difficult to explain without giving context, but if you’re in the industry, you’d know exactly what I mean.
Last year I took part in the Confidence Campaign where I opened up about some of these frustrations and funny enough, just days after leaving Abigail’s studio – my confidence level peaked – so much so, that I made a major decision which will change my career path completely!
After having children, my perspective also changed. I realised how precious time is, how short life is and was inspired to do more of what makes me happy! Writing and starting this blog were of results of this inspiration. I also took stock of my career path and thought long and hard about the way forward. As a result, I realised that I love the industry I work in, I love working with people and I love juggling and being involved in various projects at the same time. I knew that I didn’t want to move to a similar kind of role and made up my mind that I wanted to explore new opportunities.
I made the decision that 2017 would be the year to start actively pursuing that desire, but as fate (let’s call it that) would have it, I got a call about a brand new role at another Financial Services firm.
It all happened so fast, but it was literally as if this role was created for me and within a few weeks (which felt like years) I was told that the job was mine.
It’s outside of my comfort zone where I’ve comfortably sat for over 10 years, but I’m looking forward to the new challenge. What I like about the new prospect, is that it’s a generalist role, where I’ll get the opportunity to be involved in a number of projects & I may even get to use my passion for writing!
It’s bitter-sweet though. I’ve made some really strong friendships over these past years. There are many special people who I leave behind and those who have come and left the business and we are still great friends today. It is hard to walk away from these memories.
But as they say, All good things must come to an end…
So, next week is a big one for me…. I’m starting my new job and Hayley’s Joys is getting a bit of a makeover! In celebration of these milestones, there will be AMAZING giveaways each day of next week. You don’t want to miss it – so if you haven’t already, sign up with your e-mail address to be first to receive notifications of new competitions and posts to the blog (on the top right-hand side of the page)
Exciting times ahead…
xxx
Hayley
Best of luck Hayley! I can do with some of that confidence – believe me
Thanks Cat, it took me a while to build up.
Doesn’t happen overnight, but you will get there 🙂
Good luck in your new role. New challenges has a way of showing you that you have even more confidence and abilities.
Thank you Jeannette 🙂
I’m looking forward to that.
So often the hardest part is making the decision to make that change. All the very best in this new exciting chapter!
Indeed! Thank you so much Josie.
Congrats! Big things happening in 2017
Thanks Hun 🙂
AWESOME. Everything of the best. Enjoy
Thank you Kariema 🙂
Wow! Well done Hayley and all the best on this new chapter ahead.
Thank you Lateefah! Hope you are doing well 🙂
WOW, good luck and ROCK IT darling, like I know you can and will!!!
Thanks Klo 🙂
Congrats! It’s a courageous move that few actually take!!! Go for it!
Thank you 😉
Congrats! Wishing you every success and a lot happiness in your new role!
You’re going to rock you next position! Enjoy the transition, even the learning and taking time to learn new things.
Change is as good as holiday – no doubt you’ll be amazing at it!
Thanks Helene 😉
Good luck! How exciting (and I loved your interview in the Confidence Challenge last year BTW)
Thanks Belinda 🙂
[…] week is all about new beginnings for me – I’ll be starting a new career path and as you can see, Hayley’s Joys 2.0 is live! Everything will be new to me, so I’m […]
congrats and good for u for making the decision, good luck for tom
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