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It happens so gradually, you don’t even realize it at first.
One day, you wake up, head into work, and something just feels… off. The job you once said yes to doesn’t seem to fit anymore. Maybe you’ve changed. Maybe the job has. Or maybe both.
Whatever the reason, you’re starting to notice a disconnect between what you’re doing every day and what truly matters to you now. And this kind of misalignment can leave you feeling confused, frustrated, or even guilty for not being more “grateful.”
Sound familiar? You’re not alone, and you’re not wrong for noticing the shift.
Let’s look at what’s really going on and what you can do when your career no longer matches your values and goals.
Career misalignment doesn’t mean you’re failing
If your values and goals have changed over time, congratulations! This means you’ve grown.
This is a natural part of your personal and professional development. Maybe what used to drive you no longer motivates you. Maybe the “dream job” from five or ten years ago doesn’t fit your lifestyle anymore. Or maybe you’re now seeing red flags in your industry, company, or role that just don’t sit right with your conscience or priorities.
None of this means you made a bad choice. It simply means it’s time to reassess where you are and where you’re going.
Signs your values and goals are out of alignment with your career
Here’s what this misalignment might look like in the day-to-day of your career:
- You’re dreading tasks which used to energize you
- You feel disconnected from your company’s mission or culture
- You’re craving more purpose in your work but don’t know what it looks like
- You’ve reached a milestone and still feel unfulfilled
- You feel like your job is costing you your peace, your time, or your identity
These aren’t just minor annoyances. They’re warning signs. When ignored, they often lead to burnout, resentment, or poor performance—not because you don’t care, but because you’re no longer aligned with the work.
When your goals have shifted
Your personal and professional goals may look completely different than they did when you first started your job. Life stages change and priorities shift. But this is normal.
For example:
- Maybe you now value flexibility more than advancement
- Maybe you’re seeking impact over income
- Or maybe you just want to slow down and simplify after years of chasing the next big thing
It’s okay to want something different than you did before. The key is giving yourself permission to acknowledge those changes without judgment.
When your values are being compromised
Sometimes, the misalignment isn’t about goals. Instead, it’s about values.
Maybe the company culture has changed. Or leadership made a decision you’ve been questioning. Or you’ve realized your workplace doesn’t support the same standards of integrity or purpose you hold dear.
Trying to force yourself to stay “professional” while your inner values scream otherwise is exhausting. This isn’t loyalty. It’s self-betrayal.
How you can realign your goals and values with your career
You don’t have to have it all figured out today. But here are a few small steps to help you start moving toward better alignment:
1. Take inventory
Reflect on what matters most to you now. What are your current goals? Which values are non-negotiable? What do you want more (or less) of?
2. Identify the friction points
Is the misalignment coming from the company? The industry? Your specific role? Clarifying the “where” helps you decide what kind of change you need.
3. Start small
You may not need to jump ship just yet. Maybe a lateral move, internal transfer, or change in responsibilities could help you realign without starting from scratch.
4. Get support
You don’t have to sort through all of this alone. A career coach can help you connect the dots, explore options, and make decisions reflective of who you are now—not just who you were when you took the job.
Let’s get you back in sync with your values and goals
If your job no longer fits who you are, it’s time to stop white-knuckling it and start exploring what’s next.
This doesn’t mean you have to quit tomorrow. It just means you get to give yourself permission to evolve, and to build a career that evolves with you.
Let’s talk about how coaching can help you make this shift with clarity and confidence.
Schedule a complimentary consultation by completing the paNASH intake form. There’s no pressure, just a safe space to explore your next chapter and realign your career with your current values and goals.
