The Quick Tip: Why Stay When You Know It's Time to Leave?

[Boats]

The Quick Tip: Why Stay When You Know It's Time to Leave?
By: DeniseK. Magner
Re: https://www.chronicle.com/newsletter/quick-tip/2020-12-08

How to evaluate the pros and cons of jumping from an institution that appears to be a sinking ship.

People stay in bad organizations for many of the same reasons they stay in bad relationships: economic dependence, fear of uncertainty, misguided belief that things will get better. But like a bad relationship partner, a bad organization can convince you that you are unworthy of anything better.

That may be one of several reasons why you have failed to make a move. Even in this era of great turmoil all around us, and especially in academe, it’s important to ask yourself why you are staying put and what it means for your career.

* Are you staying because you are comfortable? Perhaps you find deep meaning in your work, are committed to the students, enjoy spending time with your colleagues, and are OK with the (low) compensation. If some or all of those things are true, you may be willing to tolerate chaos and questionable behavior in exchange for the opportunity to preserve the components of your work life that bring you satisfaction — and maybe even joy. But the problem with being comfortable is that the feeling doesn’t always last. Surprise events occur, expectations evolve, and what worked for so long suddenly doesn’t.

* Are you staying because you are an optimist? Optimistic people tend to be resilient. They have an ability to stay focused and positive when others are bogged down by fear or skepticism. That is a useful trait in any career. But wanting to see the best in people and organizations, optimists tend to seek evidence that supports the image of the workplace they want, rather than the workplace they have. This leads them to stay inside bad organizations when leaving would be far wiser.