Why North Americans Are Staying Put Despite Job Dissatisfaction

Career Crossroads: Why North Americans Are Staying Put Despite Job Dissatisfaction

In a striking shift from the “Great Resignation” of recent years, Americans are increasingly choosing to stay in their current jobs – even when they’re unhappy. New data reveals that voluntary quit rates have dropped to their lowest level since 2020, while employee engagement has plummeted to depths not seen in a decade. This puzzling trend raises important questions about the state of the American workforce and what it means for both employees and employers.

The Numbers Tell a Story

Recent workplace data from across North America paints a concerning picture. According to Gallup’s latest survey released in January 2025, employee engagement in the United States has fallen to its lowest point since 2014. This decline in engagement comes while fewer workers are taking the leap to find new opportunities. The U.S. Department of Labor’s data shows that voluntary quit rates have decreased significantly, reaching levels not seen since the uncertainty of 2020.

Similar trends are emerging in Canada. Statistics Canada reports that job turnover rates have declined, with the job-changing rate dropping below pre-pandemic levels. According to the Labour Force Survey, the proportion of workers searching for new employment has decreased significantly, even as surveys indicate rising workplace dissatisfaction. The Conference Board of Canada’s research shows that Canadian employee engagement metrics are following patterns like those seen in the United States.

This creates a troubling paradox: workers are less satisfied and engaged than ever, yet they’re choosing to stay put. Why?

Understanding the Stay-Put Phenomenon

Economic Uncertainty
With ongoing discussions about potential economic slowdowns and selective hiring freezes at major companies, many workers are prioritizing job security over job satisfaction. The fear of being “last in, first out” at a new company is keeping many professionals from making moves they might have made just a year or two ago.

Rising Cost of Living
As inflation continues to impact household budgets, many workers are hesitant to risk their steady paycheck, even if they’re unhappy in their current role. The financial stability of a known position, even an unfulfilling one, often feels safer than the unknowns of a job change.

Benefits Lock-In
Many workers have accumulated significant benefits at their current employers – from vested stock options to earned vacation time and pension credits. Starting over at a new company means potentially losing these accumulated benefits, making the decision to switch jobs even more challenging.

The Hidden Costs of Staying

While staying in an unfulfilling job might feel like the safe choice, it comes with significant downsides:

• Decreased Mental Health: Long-term job dissatisfaction can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout
• Stunted Career Growth: Staying in a role without growth opportunities can lead to skill stagnation
• Lower Lifetime Earnings: Failing to make strategic career moves can result in lower overall career earnings
• Reduced Innovation: Disengaged workers are less likely to contribute creative ideas or go above and beyond

Breaking Free: The Role of Career Ownership Coaching

This is where a Career Ownership Coach® can make a significant difference. These professionals offer a unique approach to career transition that goes beyond traditional job searching or career counseling.

How Career Ownership Coaches Help:

Comprehensive Assessment Career Ownership Coaches help individuals understand their true career goals, values, and potential. This goes beyond just finding the next job – it’s about creating a sustainable career path that aligns with personal and professional aspirations.

Risk Mitigation Strategies One of the biggest barriers to career changes is fear of the unknown. Career Ownership Coaches help develop strategies to minimize risks during career transitions, including:

• Financial planning for career changes
• Timeline development for strategic moves
• Alternative career path exploration
• Skills gap analysis and development plans

Entrepreneurial Thinking Career Ownership Coaches specialize in helping individuals think like business owners rather than employees. This mindset shift opens new possibilities, including:

• Franchise ownership opportunities
• Business acquisition options
• Side hustle development
• Career pivots that leverage existing skills in new ways

Taking Action with the help of your coach: Steps Toward Career Ownership

1. Assess Your Current Situation
Take an honest inventory of your job satisfaction, growth opportunities, and long-term career prospects in your current role.

2. Identify Your True Goals
Look beyond just job titles or salary targets. What kind of work truly energizes you? What impact do you want to make? What lifestyle do you want to achieve?

3. Explore Alternative Paths
Consider options beyond traditional employment, including:

• Franchise ownership
• Business partnerships
• Consulting opportunities
• Portfolio careers

4. Seek Professional Guidance
Connect with a Career Ownership Coach® who can help you:

• Evaluate your options objectively
• Develop a concrete transition plan
• Navigate the challenges of career change
• Build confidence in your decision-making

The Path Forward

While the current trend of “staying put” might feel safe, it’s essential to consider the long-term implications of remaining in an unfulfilling role. The support of a Career Ownership Coach® can help transform this challenging situation into an opportunity for meaningful career growth and personal satisfaction.

Career ownership isn’t just about finding a new job – it’s about taking control of your professional future and creating a path that aligns with your values, goals, and aspirations. In today’s complex job market, having expert guidance can make the difference between staying stuck and moving forward with confidence.

Taking the First Step

If you’re ready to explore your career options and take control of your professional future, connecting with a Career Ownership Coach® is a powerful first step. These professionals can help you navigate the challenges of career transition and discover opportunities you might not have considered on your own.

Don’t let the current trend of “staying put” keep you from achieving your full potential. The path to career ownership begins with a single step – are you ready to take it?

 

About Your Career Revolution

Our mission is to help individuals explore self-sufficiency as an alternative career.

We help them define their Income, Lifestyle, Wealth, and Equity goals and provide education on the best ways to achieve them. We don’t sell franchises – we help people achieve their dreams of self-sufficiency through business ownership. The approach is different, the experience is different. And it works.

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