PR is way too hard if you hate it

Earlier this week I ran into someone I used to know from the PR world who made a dramatic career transition. Seeing him thrive in his different role inspired me to be a bit bold with you.

Fifteen years ago this man and I used to say hi at PR luncheons and such. This week I watched with admiration while he gently helped someone I care about overcome a persistent learning challenge at school. He was very good at it, and he seemed genuinely happy.

He reminded me of other PR pros who made similar shifts:

• The agency rep I highlighted in a webinar for landing the WSJ who then emailed me to say she had finished her MSW and was becoming a social worker
• The successful solo pro who pivoted full-time to her passion of fertility coaching
• And, of course, the many people who have dialed back or opted-out from PR for a season or permanently after they became parents

As you read about them, did you think: “What a bunch of quitters” or “Those losers couldn’t hack it”?

Of course not! Like me, you respect them for prioritizing fulfillment over perceived status or compensation.

So now let me ask you: If you really don’t like your job, if PR is drudgery for you and you don’t see that changing, why are you hanging on?

Just pivot like these folks. And you don’t have to do something as “noble” as these examples – I know TONS of great former PR pros who are now thriving in marketing, for example.

My point is: PR is way too hard to do if you don’t like it, if you’re not inspired or motivated to get better at it and master it. Resisting that reality doesn’t make you brave or honorable, you’re just punishing yourself.

A few weeks ago I attempted to write a newsletter about seeking intellectual stimulation and growth through your job, but I think I weakened it by hooking that message to “watching the Olympics at work.” In hindsight, I picked a bad example that’s really just a one-off and may have distracted from my main point. Plus, the Olympics turned out to be awesome!

But I stand by my intended takeaway: If you can do your job with one eye on the TV all day (whatever you’re watching), even if your boss thinks you’re successful, you’ll probably be happier if you find a different job that occupies your full attention.

Those people you’re worried will be disappointed in you or judge you as a quitter, FORGET them and make the best choice for you.

If that means you look outside PR to find fulfillment and financial self-reliance, that’s great! I will consider your choice a huge win for both of us 😊.

If, however, you want to keep pushing yourself to master the PR track, I’ll be back next Thursday, and every week after. I’ve got some big things in the works for the fall that I’m excited to share with you.