You got through cancer treatment. Or maybe you're still in the middle of it all, navigating the endless appointments, side effects, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it. Not to mention your insurance company.

And in the middle of it all, there’s your job. The one that used to feel like a piece of your identity—or at least a necessary part of your life. But now? It feels… different.

So how do you know when it’s time to go?

First, let’s be real—this isn’t an easy decision. Walking away from a job is never just about the paycheck. It’s about security, purpose, sometimes even pride. 

And then of course there may be issues related to insurance - medical, disability, or even long-term care coverage. But after everything you’ve been through, you have every right to ask: Is this job still serving me?

Here’s what to consider:

1. Your Body Is Speaking—Are You Listening?
   Fatigue, brain fog, chronic pain—these aren’t just "side effects" you should push through. If your job is draining you to the point that you’re constantly running on empty, that’s a red flag. You’ve fought too hard for your health to let work steal it back from you. Some of my clients have changed jobs because they couldn’t physically do the work anymore, or chemo brain limited their abilities. 

2. The Work Environment Feels Toxic (or Just Wrong Now)
   Maybe your boss isn’t supportive. Maybe your coworkers don’t get what you’ve been through, and their expectations feel suffocating. Or maybe you’re just looking around the office thinking, This isn’t where I belong anymore. That feeling is valid. Cancer changes you—it’s okay if that means outgrowing where you are.

3. You’re Questioning If This Is How You Want to Spend Your Life
   Nothing puts life into perspective like a health crisis. If your job feels meaningless, stressful, or just not worth the energy anymore, listen to that voice in your head. What once felt like a career goal might now feel like a burden. And that’s okay.

So, what do you do?

You don’t have to have all the answers today. Start small. Explore other options. Talk to people.

First of all, think about what you really want. Do you want to leave your job? Or would you be happy to redefine and redesign your current job - the hours, the responsibilities, or something else? You have more control than you think!

And if you do decide to leave your job (or even your career), you have options. Consider part-time work, remote options, or a career shift that aligns better with your new self.

But most importantly? Trust yourself. You dealt with cancer. You can do hard stuff. You are capable of making this decision, too. Don’t make decisions in haste, but don’t sit in unhappy inaction due to fear and inertia, either. 

I’m happy to chat if you need help getting clarity on what you really, truly, want - and how to make it happen.

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