Stepping Away to Step Into Herself
Lisa Manning Cassidy’s Career Reset Story
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What was your role and industry before stepping away?
Talent Solutions Strategist in the Tech Industry
What was happening around you at the time—in the market, at work, or in life—that shaped your decision?
In short, it was time to make a change. After nearly 15 years at IBM, I was ready to make a thoughtful and intentional choice that better aligned with my family demands (5 and 3-year-old boys at home) and strong inner voice urging me to try something new.
What made you choose to pause rather than push forward?
Several reasons for the "pause" - influenced by journaling, coaching sessions, reading "Leap" and "Power Pause," and thoughtful financial conversations with my partner.
What were you hoping to reclaim, reflect on, or reset during this time?
In my leaving note, I mentioned the desire to learn, volunteer, rest, spend time in nature and with my fam. I'm happy to share that I've done all of these things! Learning to step away from my computer and embrace the most interesting or fun thing in front of me for that day has given me a lot more energy.
Was anything especially difficult about choosing rest or stepping away?
Oh yes, choosing to walk away from IBM brought the scariness and uncertainty of losing financial security, benefits, and pieces of my identity that I'd worked really hard to establish. AND, it was the best decision for me. What I gained by taking an intentional and thoughtful pause was life-giving. I'm just back from a week in Maryland with my youngest son and my parents, and my Dad said, "This is the happiest and most relaxed I've seen you in a very long time."
How are you thinking about “what’s next”?
Just signed an offer letter to join a smaller woman-owned biz! I'll post when it's official on LinkedIn :)
What have you learned so far about yourself, your career, or what really matters?
In the words of Mary Oliver, "you have one wild and precious life" - choose wisely. For me, it's about prioritizing what matters most in this season of life. And remembering that nothing is permanent.
What do you wish more people knew about making a big shift?
The answers to the decisions you need to make are already inside you.
What advice would you give to others who are feeling like a pause might be the right move—but are afraid to take it?
You already know what decision you need to make. Be still, and "the how and when" will be revealed. Also, nothing is permanent!
Want to follow Lisa’s next chapter? Find her on LinkedIn
