Stuck Between Stability and Passion: Navigating the Crossroads of Work and Purpose
The Moment:
"Every September, I find myself questioning my life's purpose and my direction with work. I’ve been in the same job for over a decade and even stepped away two years ago to try something new—only to realize it wasn’t what I wanted. Now that I’m back, the parts of the job I hated are still there. The only thing keeping me going is the paycheck because I value contributing financially to my family. But truthfully, I could do without the rest.
At the same time, I’m building a side business, but I question if it will ever succeed if I’m not giving it my all. I feel guilty even thinking about walking away from a reliable income. And in the quiet moments, I find myself constantly wondering—what really fills me up? Imposter syndrome creeps in, making me doubt if I’m capable of figuring it out."
Why This Matters:
This HERstory moment speaks to the internal tug-of-war so many of us face—security vs. fulfillment, stability vs. possibility. It’s about the tension between staying in what’s comfortable and taking a leap into the unknown.
For many women, work isn’t just about paying the bills; it’s about purpose. But what happens when the job you once relied on no longer fuels you? What if the thing you want to do doesn’t feel guaranteed? It’s easy to feel stuck between obligation and aspiration, making every decision feel weighted with guilt and doubt.
Reflection and Insights:
This moment invites us to reflect on how we define success and fulfillment in our careers and lives.
Success isn’t just about financial security. It’s also about how your work makes you feel—energized, valued, or drained.
Imposter syndrome isn’t a sign to stop—it’s a sign to keep going. Doubt often creeps in when we’re on the edge of something bigger.
You don’t have to choose overnight. Small shifts—more focus on your side business, experimenting with different passions, or setting clear boundaries at work—can create momentum without forcing an all-or-nothing decision.
Your Turn:
Have you ever felt torn between what’s safe and what truly excites you? How do you navigate the balance between financial stability and personal fulfillment?
Share Your HERstory Moment:
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