How to Leave Your 9–5 Without Burning Out or Going Broke (Expert Approach)

The Thrive Careers Podcast

Are you stuck in a job that looks good on paper but feels misaligned in real life?
You're not alone—and you're not crazy. You’re evolving. And so is the 9 to 5.

In this transformational episode, career coach and HR expert Olajumoke Fatoki breaks down the real reason you feel stuck, uninspired, or burned out at work—and how to start planning your next career move before a crisis forces your hand.

We’re talking about building your career escape plan, rewriting your narrative, and shifting your mindset from “employee” to “leader of your own career.” Whether you're craving more freedom, growth, or purpose in your professional life, this episode is packed with step-by-step guidance to help you:

✅ Recognize the signs it’s time for a change
✅ Get clear on what’s next (even if you don’t have all the answers)
✅ Create a realistic exit strategy that doesn’t require quitting cold turkey
✅ Build bridge income and develop in-demand skills while you work
✅ Protect your mental health and reclaim your work-life balance
✅ Shift from survival mode to strategic career planning

🔥 This episode is for you if…

• You feel drained or unfulfilled in your current job
• You want to change careers but don’t know where to start
• You’re stuck in a cycle of burnout and self-doubt
• You're curious about how others made the leap—and how you can too
• You’ve been thinking “there’s got to be more than this” every Monday

🧠 What You’ll Learn

• Why burnout is the new baseline—and how to break free
• How to know your personal tipping point (before it tips you)
• Practical steps to build your exit plan while still working
• How to shift your mindset from employee to opportunity creator
• What work-life balance really means—and how to design it

📌 Chapters

00:00 – Realizing the Need for Change
10:10 – Building Your Career Escape Plan
18:57 – Recognizing Signs for a Shift
24:03 – Steps to Create Your Exit Plan
37:33 – Embracing the Evolution of 9 to 5

✨ Subscribe to Thrive Careers Podcast for practical career advice, real talk on workplace struggles, and inspiring stories to help you land your dream job and build a fulfilling career—without burning out. New episodes drop biweekly.

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