how to take a break from job burnoutI need advice on how to take a career break. I've been steadily moving up the corporate ladder in web project management for years. When I first started out working on web sites, it was creative and somewhat enjoyable, but it is now a hell for me. As I climbed up, the stress of higher level management has taken away any enjoyment I had. I hate the never-ending stress of this career. To make matters worse, I started a new job a few months ago, and the environment here is just pure chaos. I definitely cannot stay long at this current company, but when I look at job openings in my field, I just get depressed and think "I don't want to do this anymore!!". I'm at the end of my rope and have felt for some time now that I am burned out and need a break. I've been considering going back to school to study psychology and become some kind of therapist. I want to be doing a job that involves helping poeple. However, even if I apply and get accepted, I wouldn't start a program until the fall-- that is 6 or 7 months away! I can't afford to just stop working, but I could probably get by for a while on a lower level job. But, how can I make that transition to a lower level job? Won't employers think I'm overqualified and wonder why in the world I'd want to move DOWN the ladder?
Would you enjoy going back a step or two to be more hands on and creative again? For the right organization, you could actually make that more senior experience as a selling point. You understand what it takes, what the management level priorities are, and that makes you a better creative / design / hands on person. You found where you fit best? Different organizations have different speeds and cultures. There is probably a place in your field where you could be happy and rediscover why you got into this business in the first place. Another strategy is to look for a side-step. What can you do with what you have that would be exciting and challenging and use your strengths? Something that leverages what you have? Starting over is an option as well, but I thought I would address the above first. What do you think? Ian Christie Career Changers Coach
You know if you rework your resume and "dumb it down" and maybe omit some work history. You won't be lying just omitting and you won't seem over-qualified on paper. It's easier to be smarter in person than it is on paper. Surprise them a little. Let them think that they're getting the right person for the position. When they're actually getting someone who could be their supervisor. | |
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