Navigating Career Loyalty and Job Satisfaction

A Question of Loyalty

My first inquiry for you is: how much do you genuinely desire a new job versus feeling that you should want one? (Please correct me if I’m mistaken, but it seems like you’re not in dire need of a change.) We exist in a culture that constantly pushes us to seek the next best opportunity—more prestige, higher pay, a more impressive title. But what if we are content with our current situation?

From what you’ve shared, it appears that you are in a fortunate, if not exceptional, position: you appreciate your job, enjoy the company of your colleagues, and benefit from a healthy work-life balance. Many of us in the workforce are not as lucky or do not have similar advantages. Therefore, the second question I encourage you to reflect on is this: what are the chances that you could find these desirable aspects in a new role?

As for the issue of loyalty, this is a more complex topic, which is why I’m addressing it last. If we were all truly satisfied with our jobs and our managers, would we feel such a profound sense of loyalty that contemplating a new position prompts this level of introspection? It’s important to prioritize your own interests and not allow feelings of guilt to dictate your career decisions, as this is crucial for professional growth.

That said, there is merit in tuning into your emotions and instincts. It seems your heart (and your intuition!) has conveyed a message to potential employers: you may not be wholeheartedly enthusiastic about transitioning to a new company.

Additionally, I think you should consider where you might advance after six years in your current role. If you feel ready for a new challenge, I suggest having a conversation with your supervisor—the person you feel loyal to—about what advancement opportunities exist now or may arise in the near future.

• Some career coaches might advise that one way to gain more responsibility in your current position is to present a job offer from another company. However, this approach carries risks: your current employer may call your bluff, so to speak.
• And if you’re not truly prepared to leave, then what happens next?

That said, it certainly wouldn’t hurt to explore what other job opportunities are available. After all, while knowledge may not equate to prestige or a fatter paycheck, it is a valuable form of power in its own right.