Why We Jump From One Unsatisfying Job to Another & How to Break the Cycle

A friend recently asked me to take a look at his resume and provide some feedback.  And what struck me immediately was how closely it likely resembled the very same document he had used to land his current job — a job he had been miserable in for quite some time. The resume was filled with corporate jargon, buzzwords like KPIs, profits, and results — all essential, but none of it spoke to who he really is, what he values, or what type of culture he would thrive in. It was a clear sign that a part of him was still holding onto the very job and environment he was trying to leave behind.

We’ve all been taught that resumes are for the cold, hard facts, while cover letters are the place for personality. And yes, there’s some truth to that. But here's the thing: your resume should reflect who you are — not just what you've done. If it’s still a reflection of your past job (or worse, your past self), you might be missing a golden opportunity to land a role that actually aligns with your true potential. After all, if we keep doing what we’ve always done, we’ll keep getting what we’ve always gotten.

So, if you’re serious about finding a new job, here are a few things to think about before you begin working on your resume:

1) Challenge Your Beliefs About Yourself, Your Skills, and Your Value

Many people only start looking for a new job when they’re unhappy, and when you’re at a low point, your confidence often takes a hit. You might feel like you’re "selling" yourself from a place of scarcity or doubt. This is where it’s critical to check in with yourself: have you internalized negative beliefs from others that don’t reflect your true value?

I encourage you to challenge those stories. Write down the limiting beliefs that have taken root inside you — then counter them. Remind yourself of all the things you know you do well, what you value, and the positive impact you bring to any team or organization. If you struggle to do this on your own, it could be a great time to seek out a coach who can help you reframe those thoughts, rebuild your confidence, and clarify the value you bring. Confidence comes from within, and your resume should be an authentic reflection of that.

2) What Are You Really Looking For?

Take a moment to get clear on what you're truly seeking. It’s easy to know what you want to escape — but what do you actually want to move toward? This involves thinking about the type of work you want to do and, just as importantly, the kind of environment where you’ll thrive. Think about the skills and strengths you bring to the table and that you hope would be valued at your next job — and be sure to frame your accomplishments in a way that shows how these skills and strengths contributed to the goals you’ve achieved. When you’re aligned with your purpose, your resume becomes more than a list of jobs; it tells a story of the right fit for you and your next role.

3) Don’t Be Afraid to Be Human

It’s easy to get caught up in the polished, professional language that fills most resumes. But here’s the truth: your greatest selling points are probably not just your polished achievements. According to Forbes, some of the most sought-after skills in the job market today are soft skills like teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, and resilience. These are the things that show your humanity — the things that make you a great colleague and leader, not just a “task-doer.”

Remember, if you want to find a job and a culture that truly align with who you are, you need to present yourself authentically. This means being transparent about what you bring to the table, both professionally and personally. When you show up as your whole self, you attract opportunities that are a better match. If you try to fit into a mold that doesn’t resonate with you, you’ll likely find yourself in the same uncomfortable situations you’re trying to escape.

Job searching isn’t just about sending out resumes and hoping for the best. It’s about understanding who you are, what you value, and how you can contribute in a way that’s true to yourself. Before you dust off your resume, spend some time getting clear on what you want, challenging the beliefs that hold you back, and being true to your authentic self. When you approach your job search from a place of confidence and clarity, you’ll be far more likely to find the right role — and avoid falling into the same patterns of dissatisfaction.