Navigating the complex terrain of academia can sometimes feel like choosing between a rock and a hard place. Whether it’s the creeping doubts about your career path, or the persistent feeling that maybe—just maybe—it’s time to move on, deciding whether to stay or leave your current institution is no small feat. At Not That Kind of Doctor, we’ve had this conversation more than once. And now, we’re extending the discussion from our latest podcast episode to help you weigh the big question: Should I stay, or should I go?
In the episode, we broke down the key considerations that factor into this decision—ranging from career growth and job satisfaction to institutional fit and personal circumstances. But here, we want to take things a step further by providing you with a practical tool to help guide your decision-making: our Should You Stay or Go? Decision Tree, available as a free download at the end of this post.
The Decision Dilemma: Key Questions to Ask Yourself
Before you hit “apply” on that new job listing or send your resignation email, it’s important to take a deep dive into why you’re even considering the change in the first place. Here are a few key questions we think you should be asking yourself:
- Is your current institution helping you grow? Are there opportunities for professional development, or have you hit a plateau in your career?
- Does your work environment support your well-being? Academia can be tough, and the support (or lack thereof) from your department or institution can make all the difference.
- How does your current role align with your long-term goals? Are you on track with your career aspirations, or does this institution hold you back in some way?
These are just a few of the questions we discuss in the episode, but if you’re looking for more tailored guidance, our decision tree is here to help.
Introducing the Should You Stay or Go? Decision Tree
We’ve crafted a downloadable decision tree that walks you through some of the most important factors to consider when thinking about your future at your current institution. It’s a straightforward tool designed to help you explore all angles—whether it’s personal fulfillment, professional advancement, or simply whether you can see yourself thriving where you are long term.
You can download the Should You Stay or Go? Decision Tree by clicking here. Be sure to set aside some time for reflection—this isn’t a decision to make lightly!
Final Thoughts
Making the choice to stay at your current institution or move on is rarely a black-and-white decision. It involves juggling professional opportunities, personal aspirations, and even work-life balance. The key is to ensure that wherever you are, you’re growing, thriving (without using “thrive” too much, we get it), and, most importantly, content with the direction you’re headed. This is a journey worth taking—and we hope the decision tree helps you take those next steps with confidence.
