It’s cold! I’ve got a cardigan on and the cats are in bed – snuggling in the duvet. Summer is over, autumn is coming in at a clip but we take joy in hot chocolate 😊
It’s a change, and speaking of which:
If you’re fed up and want to quit your job, you’re not alone.
2026 surveys show that large numbers of professionals are considering or actively seeking a job switch: Malaysia (92%), UK (53%), Singapore (49%) and USA (43%).
One of the drivers is AI. A huge CNBC-Microsoft study in July found that about 1 in 4 workers, and nearly 1 in 3 students, are rethinking their industry because of AI.
Other drivers include looking for better salaries, more meaningful work, and a better work–life balance.
All change though is frightening. New environments mean new risks, challenges, and learning. Our brains are wired to see change = danger.
If you’re considering changing jobs or careers, here are three research‑backed ways to protect your mental health during the process:
1. Try for stages, rather than one giant leap. Smaller, planned steps feel more controllable and lower anxiety. 2. Guard your routines. Prioritise sleep, regular exercise, and have fun with friends or family. Ideally, you schedule ‘no work chat’ blocks of time so the change doesn’t take over your whole identity. 3. Watch out for and manage anxiety, low mood, or trauma flares as stress builds.I’ve moved countries five times, with three major career changes. It’s always a rollercoaster, but with good planning and support, you can come out of it feeling happier and brighter.
If you’d like some help smoothing a transition, we can check in, assess what’s going on and design a sensible path forward together.
That’s it.
Warm wishes,
Ellen
Sources: Reeracoen thrivegroup.co lbc.co techcoffeehouse tradingeconomics SurveyMonkey
