Have you ever wondered what it would be like to double your salary overnight? Sounds amazing, right? For many academics, that dream becomes a reality when they transition to industry roles. But what happens when the shine fades and you’re left questioning your decision?
As a full university professor and academic career coach, I’ve seen brilliant minds leave academia for higher-paying positions, only to feel empty and unfulfilled. I’d like to share what I’ve learned from guiding hundreds of PhDs and postdocs through this deeply personal transition.
The Hidden Cost of Leaving Academia
Take Dr. Sarah, for example. A brilliant molecular biologist, she landed a prestigious role at a top tech firm. On paper, it was perfect: higher pay, better hours, and impressive perks. But when she came to me for coaching, her eyes told a different story. Despite the external success, something vital was missing.
Many who leave academia cite salary, work-life balance, and job security as key reasons. But here’s the uncomfortable truth: when we focus solely on external benefits, we ignore what truly drives long-term satisfaction.
Three Common Traps Post-Academics Fall Into
I see three traps that PhDs and postdocs commonly encounter:
- Salary Fixation: Being blinded by the promise of more money, forgetting why you pursued academia in the first place.
- Status Anxiety: Worrying about how colleagues, peers, or family will perceive your career move.
- Escape Mentality: Wanting to get away from academic pressures rather than moving toward a meaningful alternative.
These traps often lead to what I call Post-Transition Disillusionment Syndrome — the moment when the excitement fades and doubt creeps in.
Introducing Value-Based Academic Careers
This is exactly why I liked to think about Value-Based Academic Careers. Based on this concept, I have developed a free exercise to help academics align their next career move with their core values and life goals.
Consider another client of mine, Dr. Michael. He was ready to accept a lucrative corporate offer. But through the process of value-based academic career coaching, he discovered that mentorship and innovation mattered more to him than a paycheck. Today, he leads a research team at a local university. The salary might be lower, but his fulfillment is through the roof.
A Career Aligned with Who You Really Are
The framework about putting valueas first isn’t just another career quiz. It’s a comprehensive self-assessment and guided reflection that uncovers what truly motivates you. Over 200 PhDs have already used it to find clarity, confidence, and career satisfaction.
So if you’re considering leaving academia, don’t just ask “What will I gain?” or, even worse, “What am I running away from”. Ask “What truly matters to me?”.
Ready to Get Started?
Click the link below to explore your values and join our value-based academic career exercise for free. Make your next move with confidence, purpose, and authenticity.
Remember, a successful career transition isn’t about running away from academia — it’s about running toward your authentic self.