Career Moves That Pay Off: How I Increased My Income by Walking Away

Sometimes the best career move isn’t climbing the ladder—it’s walking away from the wrong building.

Years ago, I left a job paying $13.75 an hour for one that only paid $11. Everyone thought I was crazy. But what they didn’t see was the opportunity—the chance to step into Information Technology. That lower-paying job became the launching pad to a 14-year IT career that led me to a management position and eventually a six-figure salary.

Here’s what I learned:

1. Short-Term Sacrifice Can Lead to Long-Term Gain: Don’t get stuck in what’s comfortable. Growth requires risk.

2. Trust Your Vision, Not Just the Numbers: Sometimes the biggest opportunities come in small packages.

3. Skill Building Is More Valuable Than a Paycheck: What you learn today becomes your leverage tomorrow.

4. Know When to Move On: Loyalty is great—but don’t stay where your value isn’t recognized.

5. Your Next Level Requires Bold Moves: The job that pays you what you’re worth is out there. Go find it.

   
   

Don’t be afraid to bet on yourself. Sometimes the walk away is what walks you into abundance.