5 Things to Consider before You Take the New Job
Sometimes we’re so bored or undervalued at work that we jump at the first opportunity for a change. If we’re not careful, we could end up worse off. Here are some things to consider before changing jobs.
1. Your spiritual life. Will the new position require you to compromise your Christian values? Will your new boss expect you to lie or hide information? When you’re considering the new position, listen for the still small voice. Spend quiet time with the Lord and ask Him what you should do. Discuss the position with a brother or sister in the Way. Fear always accompanies change, but if something just doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts.
2. Your physical and mental well-being. Will the new position require you to work longer hours? Will you need to be at work before it’s light outside? How much added stress is involved? Will you have time to exercise and prepare healthy meals? Will you be expected to each lunch and or dinner with colleagues and superiors? Look at the people currently in the position. Do they appear to be physically and mentally healthy? Are these people that you want to spend most of your waking hours with?
3. Your family. Will you be forced to spend more time away from your friends and loved ones? Will you have less energy for your responsibilities at home?
4. Money. Consider how much the new employer will contribute towards your health insurance and your retirement. Force yourself to work through the dollars with a calculator, so that you can see how much money you’re really gaining. If it’s a $5,000 raise, but you have to work an extra 10-12 hours a week, consider the profit and the cost of the new job.
5. Why? Are you taking the job to prove a point? Is it too easy to pass up? If the new position isn’t something you really want, maybe you should leave it for someone else. Is the new job in line with your employment goals? Low hanging fruit can rot once it’s picked!
Once you’ve considered these five things and counted all the costs, you’re ready to make a decision.
