This month, I made the decision to say yes to a new job. I’ll be starting on August 18th.
It’s exciting. It’s a step forward in my career. It’s something I worked really hard to get.
But it’s also a little terrifying.
Transitions are weird like that. You can be thrilled about the opportunity in front of you and sad to leave behind things you’ve grown to appreciate—like the coworkers who made you laugh when your day went sideways, or the parts of your job that felt second nature, or the comfort of knowing where everything is and how it all works.
The Emotional Weight of Leaving
Before we celebrate the next chapter, let’s be honest: leaving a job isn’t always easy, even when it’s the right move. There might be grief involved—yes, grief. It’s not just for relationships or losses. According to the Harvard Business Review, making a major life change often triggers a cycle of emotions that includes anxiety, doubt, and even guilt (HBR). That’s normal. You’re not failing for feeling complicated feelings.
In my case, I knew it was time to move forward. I’d hit a point where I wanted to stretch further into HR work—building systems, supporting employees directly, and continuing to grow my skills. Still, that didn’t mean it was simple to walk away from a workplace that gave me moments of connection, laughter, and stability.
Embracing the Unknown
The new role I’ve accepted is an HR Generalist position supporting around 200 employees. It’s a big step up in responsibility, scope, and visibility—and I won’t pretend I’m not nervous. But I’ve learned that nerves and growth tend to show up together.
If you’re in the midst of a similar transition, here are a few things that have helped me:
Navigating a Career Change with Confidence
1. Name Your Feelings (Don’t Bury Them)
Take time to process the emotional side of leaving. Journal it, talk it out with a trusted friend, or even write your own “goodbye” letter to your current role. This clears space to embrace what’s next.
Resource: 8 Ways to Cope With the Emotional and Psychological Impact of a Career Transition – Career Connectors
2. Prepare for Your First 90 Days
Even if your new employer doesn’t have a formal onboarding plan, you can create one. Set learning goals, schedule regular check-ins, and build in time for reflection.
Resource: Your Blueprint for Success – Berkeley ExecEd
3. Get Curious, Not Perfect
It’s okay not to know everything. The goal in your first few months isn’t to prove yourself; it’s to learn, observe, and build relationships.
Quote I love: “Be curious, not judgemental.” – Ted Lasso, (incorrectly) attributed to Walt Whitman
4. Build a Support Network
Transitions can feel isolating. Whether it’s a mentor, a former colleague, or a new peer, find someone who can be a sounding board as you settle in.
Resource: Mentor-Mentee Relationships – BetterUp
5. Reflect on Your “Why”
Keep reminding yourself what drew you to this new opportunity. Make a list of the reasons you said yes. You’ll need that on the tough days.
Resource: Find Your Why: 9 Ways to Find Purpose in Work For You & Your Team – The Leadership Reformation
A Final Word
Saying yes to something new doesn’t mean denying what was good about what came before. It just means you’re choosing to believe in what’s next.
If you’re on the edge of a big decision, like leaving a job, starting a new one, or pivoting entirely, I hope you know this: it’s okay to feel it all. Growth often lives in the space between goodbye and hello.
You’ve got this.
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