Cost of Staying: Why Playing It Safe Is Riskier Than You Think
- Author
- Sue Willoughby
- Published
- Tue 15 Apr 2025
- Episode Link
- http://www.midlifebadasswomen.com/e/the-cost-of-staying-why-playing-it-safe-is-riskier-than-you-think/
What’s the real cost of staying in something that no longer fits—your job, your identity, or your idea of success?
In this episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby sits down with author, coach, and former Fortune 50 exec Kristen Chimack, who walked away from a 30-year corporate career to reclaim her energy, purpose, and self.
Together, they unpack:
The hidden toll of staying “stuck” (even in a 6-figure job)
How to listen to the whispers that tell you it’s time to move on
Why it’s so hard to let go of identities, benefits, and other safety nets
The power of core values and alignment in your career + life
How to take small, practical steps toward something more meaningful
Kristen also shares insights from her brand-new book, The Cost of Staying, and introduces her 4-phase framework for growth: Whispers, Letting Go, Possibilities, and Integration.
If you’re questioning your path or wondering, is this all there is?, this episode is your permission slip to ask for more—and go find it.
Chapters
00:00 The Journey of Leaving Corporate America
16:35 Embracing New Beginnings and Authenticity
31:17 The Cost of Staying vs. The Cost of Leaving
🔗 Connect with Kristen at https://kristenschimack.com or on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenschimack/
📘 Get her new book The Cost of Staying + free downloadable workbook on her site.
🔗 Connect with Sue Willoughby:
My Upcoming Retreats: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/events
Web: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/
