Being on my own transformational journey, I keep meeting people who have either recently made life changes or are in the process of doing so. This can be to new careers, organisations, studying, or other shifts, but essentially choosing a better place for themselves. This kōrero has made me reflect on how I’ve known when it was—in the words of Kenny Rodgers—“time to fold ‘em” ie. move along.
I’ve made significant professional changes over the past six months and am making more now. That’s life—filled with constant flux and change. I am constantly shifting the dial to get back into tune. Stepping into the unknown is challenging and often scary, but I get closer to where I want to be each time by taking risks.
So, how do you know where you belong? Here are five ways I’ve used to check this along my journey:
Feeling like my values are aligned
It feels so uncomfortable to be somewhere where my values aren’t aligned with what’s happening around me. Over the years, I’ve spent considerable time trying to make myself fit in the wrong spaces. I’ve told myself all the practical reasons why I should stay. But there’s always been a feeling of increasing frustration, anxiety, or worry that it’s not the right place for me. I have a high tolerance for change, but it is scary to walk away without a clear path forward.
Over the years, I’ve become more sensitive to following my instincts. I’ve learned to recognise that the next pathway will never be easily seen. Usually, all I can see is the next step (sometimes not even that!). If it’s the right one, everything clicks into place. If it’s the wrong one, well …. it’s back to the beginning, rinse and repeat, and try again until I find the right fit.
Stepping away from power and control games
As I’ve progressed in my career, I’ve learned to become much more sensitive to identifying ‘power and control’ tactics others use. NGOs, charities, and community groups usually don’t operate under traditional, hierarchical governance or management models – or ‘1990s mid-level government management’ as I once heard it explained and have since adopted! Old and formal structures create barriers to the mahi we’re trying to deliver.
As NGO leaders, we’re much more flexible and fluid in getting things done. Our communities remain our highest priorities, requiring us to change and adapt constantly. However, we still have plenty of people in our organisations wedded to top-down governance and management models. My tolerance for these kinds of games is virtually zero. How about you? I often feel like a flashing red light is telling me to exit those environments! It’s never going to be a fit for me.
Celebrating innovative and adaptable environments
Our world is constantly shifting. Solutions to serve our communities no longer (if ever) fit under traditional, well-worn structures. Running NGOs requires us to be innovative and adaptable, continually wrangling and creating new solutions.
When I find myself in very structured environments where people continue to roll out the same thing, in the same way, year after year, I realise these are not the places for me. I can’t sit in a box and do the bare minimum, especially when I can see where it’s not working. I fit best alongside other creative and innovative people constantly striving to serve our communities in new ways.
Having the opportunity to grow and learn
Another way I know I’m in the right place is when I’m surrounded by opportunities to grow and learn. I feel energised and motivated in an environment that enables me to contribute my skills, gather new ideas, and meaningfully contribute. At times, this has included formal professional development.
I’ve lost count of NGO leaders I’ve heard of without any professional development or performance review processes in place. How can you possibly know whether you’re doing a good job if there’s no process to tell you? Random affirmations from board members just doesn’t cut it. How can you develop and expand your skills? How is your salary measured against the competencies you’re delivering? These processes don’t need to be super formal; in fact, the more informal and genuine, the better. If you’re not getting this support, ASK!
If I find myself stagnating or feeling like I’m not growing, it’s a clear sign that it might be time to move on. Being in a space that values personal and professional growth has been essential for my well-being and professional satisfaction.
Feeling supported and valued
Lastly, I know I’m in the right place when I feel genuinely supported and valued by my colleagues and leadership. It’s vital to be in an environment where my skills are recognised and appreciated. I need to operate where there is a strong sense of collective and mutual respect. I feel a deep sense of belonging and happiness when I’m part of a team that uplifts each other and works collaboratively towards common goals.
On the other hand, if I feel undervalued or unsupported, it’s a sign that I’m not in the right place. A supportive and collaborative environment is critical to feeling content and professionally motivated.
These five ways have guided me through my professional journey, helping me discern when I’m in the right place and when to move on. Change can definitely be daunting, but it’s been essential for my personal and professional growth. When you know you no longer fit, be ready to embrace the unknown, align with your values, avoid toxic environments, celebrate innovation, seek opportunities to grow, and make sure you feel supported.
Trust your instincts, take risks, and don’t hesitate to make changes when necessary. Finding the right place isn’t just about professional achievement—it’s about knowing you’re making a meaningful impact on the communities you serve.
Here’s to finding and thriving in the right place for you.