It’s January, and if you’re like most people, you’ve pondered whether this is the year to finally make a move. Should I stay or should I go? Maybe this question was triggered by a disappointing year-end review, a disengaged and unsupportive boss, or just that vague sense that you’re stagnating or don’t feel a sense of belonging.

Don’t panic. 

January energy can be deceiving. Yes, that fresh-start, clean-slate feeling is real, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to bail on your job. Ask yourself a different, more empowering question: Why am I here, and how can I grow? This open-ended question reframes the issue and helps you explore whether you’re experiencing legitimate career stagnation or just a post-holiday slump. The distinction matters because I firmly believe that work doesn’t have to suck or be just a paycheck to cover the bills. It can be energizing and rewarding. An opportunity to grow new skills. Not every minute or every day, but most of the time.

So, instead of making a decision based on how you feel subjectively on any given Monday, we created the Work Fit Framework to help you assess objectively. Work fit comes down to four key dimensions: You, the Role, the Environment, and the Organization. 

Apply the Work Fit Framework to your circumstances

Step 1

For this email, I’m sharing a simplified version of the Framework (The full Framework is explained in detail in my upcoming book!) Score each statement 0-2 points.

(0 = not true, 1 = somewhat true, 2 = very true):

YOU

• I bring a positive attitude and willingness to learn
• I am energized, challenged, and look forward to my work
• I am fairly compensated for my contributions
• I have a clear path for upward mobility, which my manager supports

Your “You” Score: ______ / 8

THE ROLE 

• I apply my strengths at least 50% of the time in my role
• I am energized, challenged, and look forward to my work
• I am fairly compensated for my contributions
• I have a clear path for upward mobility, which my manager supports

Your “Role” Score: ______ / 8

THE ENVIRONMENT 

• The working arrangement meets my needs (in-office, remote, or hybrid).
• I have a reasonable degree of flexibility with my schedule
• I have the tools and training to perform my job effectively
• I am doing work that is compatible with my values

Your “Environment” Score: ______ / 8

THE ORGANIZATION

• I receive frequent and open communication from leadership
• I trust the leadership and am proud to work at the organization
• The mission is inspiring to me
• The company is financially stable

Your “Organization” Score: ______ / 8

Step 2

Add it up! How did you do? If you scored:

• 21-32: Great fit. You’re in a strong position. Invest here.
• 8-20: Some things fit, some don’t. It’s a mixed bag. Identify which dimension needs attention.
• 0-7: Not a good fit. Significant misalignment. Time to explore other options.

Step 3

Look at where your lowest scores are clustering. If it’s mostly in “You” or “The Role,” those issues might follow you to a new company, so consider prioritizing a heart-to-heart with a trusted boss or mentor about a lateral move or coaching guidance. If it’s “Environment” or “Organization,” a change of scenery could be worth exploring.

Step 4

Make a plan. If you decide to stay, you’re not being passive. You’re being strategic. But it’s a strategic choice that requires action. Here’s your Q1 game plan:

By the end of January:

• Request a 1:1 with your manager specifically about your development goals for the year
• Identify one skill gap or experience you want to gain in 2026 and how you might get it internally
• Map out who in the organization you will build relationships with (think up, down, and across)

By the end of February:

• Volunteer for one stretch project or committee that gives you new visibility
• Have coffee chats with three people in roles you might want next
• Document a “hype sheet” of your recent wins to reference later

By the end of March:

• Assess if the investments you’re making are paying off in terms of learning, visibility, or growth
• Adjust your strategy or revisit the stay-or-go question with fresh data

Step 5

Make a decision. If you decide to go, do it strategically, not impulsively. Job searching while employed gives you leverage, so use it wisely.

Or, what if you concluded you’re just…bored?!?

Sometimes the urge to leave isn’t about the job being bad – it’s about hitting a plateau. Before you jump ship, ask:

• Is there a lateral move within your company that would feel fresh?
• Do you need professional development to level up your skills?
• Would a sabbatical or extended break help more than a new job?

Boredom is legit, but a new job won’t fix it if the issue is deeper.

January’s fresh-start energy can be powerful – just make sure you’re channeling it in the right direction. Whether you stay and grow or choose to go, the key is to make an intentional choice and then explore it fully for at least three months. No more Sunday scaries spent scrolling LinkedIn without a plan.

You’re equipt to assess your work fit.