When Something’s Got To Change

As a mom, professional, and CEO, I’ve felt like I was on the edge of managing way too much many times.  Life can be overwhelming, and I know I’m not alone.

Honestly, the image I have in my head at these times is a recurring one: me riding a large old fashioned bicycle teetering on the edge of a cliff with a very thin track to stay on, and me merrily cycling along in a straw boater hat with a glib smile on my face yelling, “EVERYTHING IS FINE!”  Yes, like some kind of Mary Poppins meme!

At those times, I’ve made changes.  Big ones.  (I’m sure you’re not surprised; that image of me on the brink of madness is pretty graphic!)  Maybe you have lives similar times.

Here’s some of the things I have done when I have felt like “things needed to change around here!”

I’ve changed jobs.  Got help.  Been blunt.

If this has ever been you, or if you’re at that breaking point where you feel stuck and unable to continue,  riding a wobbly bicycle on the edge of “this is way too much”…. Stop your scroll.  

Come back to me.  

You CAN make changes in your career, your life, your work parameters and home parameters.  

Is it easy?  Not alone, no.  Making changes is seriously tough when you’re alone.  

Here’s 5 things that have made change easier for me and many other people in their transitions to different life and work parameters:

1. Make some breathing room

Take a break, get your spouse to take the kids somewhere else, cancel everything.  Get yourself some brain space.  Even if it means disappointing someone, they’ll recover.  See what you can remove from your schedule.  Just go for a 10 minute walk, or do a short journalling or meditation session.  

2. Pad yourself with people who care and who can support you in the way you need right now

Know that not everyone is able to support you in the way you need, and that is A-ok.  My super blunt and direct friend is NOT who I call when I need a soft hug.  It’s ok if you don’t have anyone to do this, or you don’t feel like you have the right people in your corner. This is why coaches, therapists, and other impartial people can be so helpful.

3. Get help- turn towards connection, not away

Reach out to a colleague, mentors, or a coach.  And if you feel that you need additional support or aren’t sure if mental health struggles are at play, please pay a visit to your doctor or health provider.  It’s not weak to ask for help.

4. Go easy on yourself

Being at the precipice of change is not easy.  It’s messy, and we rarely do it perfectly.  It’s ok.  Be kind; you’re doing your best.

5. Really: please go easy on yourself

Yes I’m saying it twice for those in the back, and because we vet med enthusiasts need this reminder at least twice.  Making a change in how you do vet med is not a failure.  Changing parameters about your life is not embarrassing; it’s a sign of being reflective and making good choices.

Change is hard, especially when your world is moving so fast you can’t even think straight.  This is why VSGD came to be in the first place!  

And it’s why we firmly believe in offering support through programs like our group coaching program.  We are here for you if you’re ready to make your career more sustainable no matter your role.  Employer, parent, student, job seeker, stuck in chaos professional, or just as a person.   

If you need support to get to career sustainability and satisfaction, we’re got life boats at the ready!  Group coaching sessions are available in North America and the UK and we have individual coaching sessions as well.  Check it out below.

It IS important to note that if you are struggling with mental health issues, please visit your doctor or mental health provider.  Coaching is not a substitute for medical care or therapy.