You Are Not Stuck; You Are in Control of Your Life

“You Are Not Stuck; You Are in Control of Your Life”

I recently came across this line in a friend’s social media post (thanks Ilene Rivard Sipp), and it really struck a chord. How many of us feel like we have no choice but to stick with our current job? It’s a tough spot to be in, and for the first time, I also heard the term “Golden Handcuffs.”

So, what does it mean? Golden handcuffs are those financial perks—big salaries, bonuses, stock options, retirement plans—that seem too good to walk away from. On the surface, they’re “golden,” promising security and comfort. But those same benefits can leave you feeling handcuffed—stuck in a role that no longer brings joy, growth, or alignment with your life.

It’s like this: you’re in a good seat, but on the wrong bus. For example, a nurse manager might have an amazing retirement plan or a generous annual bonus that makes leaving feel impossible, even if the role is exhausting or unfulfilling. It becomes comfort with a cost—keeping you tethered while slowly pulling you away from your values, your dreams, or who you truly want to be.

Here’s the question I had to ask myself: “Does this job align with my values?” If the answer is no, then the next step is even more important—Is this job pulling me toward the person I want to become, or pulling me further away?

Over the last few months, I’ve done a lot of personal work to identify what truly matters to me. Through that process, I’ve realized that I’m not where I’m meant to be. And while those “golden handcuffs” feel safe and familiar; they’re also holding me back.

So, I’ve decided it’s time to break free. I’m letting go of the golden handcuffs and moving toward a path that better aligns with my personal values and goals. It’s both terrifying and exciting, but I’m ready to embrace this new chapter.

This isn’t the end—it’s a fresh start. I plan to begin my new journey after the first of the year, and I’ll be sharing updates as I go. If you’re feeling stuck, just remember you are not stuck. You’re in control. The moment you align your choices with your values, you’ll start to see the path forward.

Let’s make this next chapter about growth, alignment, and becoming the person we’re truly meant to be. I hope you’ll follow along—I can’t wait to share what’s next.

Sandra