Stay or Leave? 6 Steps to Figuring Out Your Next Career Move

Navigating your career can often feel like you're standing at a crossroads, unsure whether to keep heading down the same path or explore new opportunities. Whether you're feeling unfulfilled, underappreciated, or simply curious about what else is out there, the decision to stay in your current job or move on is a big one. So how do you know when it’s time to stay and when it’s time to go? Here are six tips to help you evaluate your next career move with clarity and confidence.

1. Assess Your Job Satisfaction

Start by asking yourself how satisfied you truly are in your current role. It’s easy to get comfortable, but you should regularly check in with yourself on things like work-life balance, job enjoyment, personal growth, and whether the work aligns with your values. If you’ve been feeling stuck for a while or you're simply not passionate about what you're doing anymore, it could be time to start considering new opportunities.

2. Revisit Your Career Goals

 Have your career goals changed? If your current job no longer aligns with your long-term ambitions, whether it’s leadership, flexibility, creativity, or impact, it might be time to reassess whether it’s the right fit. Ask yourself if your current role helps you move closer to your goals. Does it offer opportunities for growth, skill-building, or leadership development? Check whether your job is helping you progress or holding you back. If the latter, seeking out new opportunities that better align with your evolving needs could be a wise decision.

3. Check for Professional Growth

 When was the last time you felt stretched in a good way? Feeling stagnant can be a big red flag. If you’ve outgrown your current role, it’s important to think about whether your company offers opportunities for growth or if you’re being overlooked for promotions or new challenges. Ask yourself: is there still room to grow here—or is growth only possible elsewhere? Lack of career development and growth can be a strong signal that it might be time to move on and seek a role that helps you thrive professionally.

4. Reflect on the Company Culture

 A toxic or misaligned work culture can slowly chip away at your motivation and wellbeing. If the values, leadership, or team dynamics no longer support you, consider whether staying is worth the cost to your peace of mind and long-term growth. 

5. Financial and Personal Considerations

While career fulfilment is important, your financial situation is also something to consider. If you’re in a stable job but thinking of switching to something more risky or entrepreneurial, weigh the financial implications carefully. Can you afford to leave your job and still meet your financial commitments? Sometimes it’s necessary to take a step back and plan a transition period before making a big leap.

6. Get Outside Perspective

Sometimes you’re too close to the situation to see clearly. Talk to trusted peers, mentors or a coach. A sounding board can help you unpack your thoughts, explore options, and move forward with more clarity. They can help you see things from a different angle and provide insights into whether staying or leaving makes sense for your career.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Staying or leaving your role is never a one-size-fits-all answer. But by tuning into your values, assessing your career goals, and seeking honest insight, you’ll be better equipped to make a decision that serves you—not just now, but long term.

Whatever you choose, know this: You have permission to want more, and you have the power to pursue it.

At The WIN, we champion driven women from the corporate world who want to thrive in what they do—without sacrificing what matters most. Whether you’re ready to grow, pivot or completely reimagine your path, we’re here to help you break free from the grind, find balance, and build a career and life you truly love—on your own terms.

Here are a few tools to help you take your next step:

🚘 Take the Career MOT – If you're looking to make a change but not sure exactly what it is or where to start, our quiz will help you get clear & find your next move in 2 mins.

📺 Watch our masterclass – If you're ready to unlock your career and thrive without losing yourself in the process, this is for you.

💻 Explore our Corporate Career Accelerator course – A digital course to help you fast track your career growth—without burnout or compromise.

Let’s make work, work for you.