Conflicting Values

There was a time when one could expect to come out of university or college, land a job in a big organization and settle in for life. Inclusive in this was a sense of family, of belonging - creating loyalty. Sure there were times and situations where you felt frustrated and maybe even wanted to leave however the hold was so strong that you never really considered it seriously.

Then came downsizing, right sizing, restructuring and the break up of monopolies Your company was no longer a second family to you and work was no longer a second home. Values you lived your life by didn't matter anymore. Integrity seemed to have gone by the wayside. Getting promoted no longer happened just because you worked hard and deserved it.

The world had changed. Did you change too? Or did you remain true to your inner values and beliefs? If you chose not to change, you may have been considered obstinent, old school, uncooperative and set in your ways. If you did change maybe you battled inner conflicts of not liking the new you or the new approach to business.

What should you have done? What should you do if this is happening to you now? A combination of both. A combination of changing yet not changing. Of picking your battles to allow you to win the war. Change is with us to stay so you have to move on yet your inner values are what give you peace of mind so you cannot completely change how you do business.

Find a compromise that works for you - a middle ground. Determine what you can live with and what you can't. Make a list. If there is more on the "Can't Live With" side and they are truly things you value, then it is time to start thinking about a career change - seriously this time.

Audie McCarthy
President & Founder
Marrek Solutions Inc.

Audie McCarthy, President & Founder of Marrek Solutions Inc has been involved in the human resource field, specializing in recruitment, training and coaching for over fifteen years. In addition, she has over ten years experience in management in both the retail and telecommunications industry. Audie can be reached at amccarthy@marrek.com.

HR Professionals: Send us your HR Tip