Lady Boss Embracing the Great Resignation: A Compassionate Look at the Viral Quitting Phenomenon & The Inspiring Journey of Giselle Ruffer-Delance

The Great Resignation has sparked conversations about work-life balance, job satisfaction and the pursuit of life purpose. While quitting a job can be a difficult decision, it is essential to recognize the courage it takes to step away from the familiar in search of something more fulfilling. In this article, we delve into the compassionate aspect of this phenomenon, highlighting one of the most inspiring stories of female empowerment in the 21st century: Giselle Ruffer-Delance.

Long before the current wave of resignations finally received some timid media attention, Giselle Ruffer Delance was already a trailblazer and for decades inspired countless women worldwide to embrace their inner Lady Boss. Driven by her passion to empower women and instil self-confidence, Giselle created the Delance Watch as a symbol of feminine strength and resilience. As we explore her remarkable journey, we hope her story will inspire you to embark on your own adventure of self-discovery and transformation. Who knows, you may be the next Lady Boss to emerge from the Great Resignation.

Redefining the value of time: is Lady Boss shifting priorities from money to purpose?

As the world continues to evolve in the wake of a global pandemic, the way we work and view our careers has also undergone significant change. The Great Resignation, as it has come to be known, has seen a record number of workers quit their jobs. In 2021, nearly 49 million workers left their positions, and in 2022, that number rose to over 50 million, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

As the Great Resignation sweeps across the globe, a significant question arises: is the age-old adage “time is money” losing its relevance? Are women increasingly unwilling to trade their time for monetary gains, seeking instead a deeper sense of meaning and purpose in their lives?

Women do not measure the value of time in dollars and cents. When I asked women what is important in their lives and in the way they spend their time and what they are struggling for, their unanimous answer was that they are striving for harmony. Many women also said that they wanted something more than just everyday life–something spiritual. Therefore, in addition to capturing the strength and eternity of women, I also wanted the DELANCE to capture the sentiments of life, harmony, and spirituality. This is why I have chosen the diamond shape, because it symbolizes life and harmony.

Giselle Rufer -Delance, interview by Sovereign Magazine

The Great Resignation has gone viral both online and in real life, sparking countless conversations about work-life balance, job satisfaction, and the pursuit of life purpose. While quitting a job can be perceived as a failure or an act of defiance, it is essential to recognize the courage it takes to step away from the familiar in search of something more fulfilling. This wave of resignations represents a collective shift in perspective as individuals prioritize their well-being, personal growth, and happiness over the traditional metrics of career success.

The Great Resignation: a brief dive into the statistics & the force of the quitting wave

Amidst the uncertainty of the pandemic, many people have re-evaluated their priorities and gained a newfound appreciation for the power of choice. Choosing to quit a job is an act of reclaiming agency over one’s life and can be a transformative experience. For some, it may lead to pursuing a lifelong passion, while others might explore different industries or take the opportunity to return to school. This freedom of choice has empowered millions to chase their dreams and seek out careers that align with their values and aspirations.

The Great Resignation has been making headlines as millions of people around the world are leaving their jobs in search of better opportunities, work-life balance, and personal life satisfaction. In October 2022, official statistics revealed that approximately 4 million Americans, or 2.6% of the workforce, quit their jobs. This trend shows no signs of slowing down, and its impact is being felt across various industries.

While the Great Resignation affects workers in all sectors, some industries have been hit harder than others. The hospitality and leisure sector, for example, saw workers leaving their jobs at more than twice the average rate. This can be attributed to factors such as long hours, low wages, and challenging working conditions that have led many employees in these industries to seek better opportunities elsewhere.

The Great Resignation is not limited to any specific age group or generation. According to new research nearly three-quarters of Gen Zers and two-thirds of millennials are considering quitting their jobs this year. Older generations are also contemplating resignations, with 55% of Gen Xers and a third of Baby Boomers expressing similar sentiments. What are the factors contributing to the Great Resignation? Some of the most common reasons include:

1. Burnout pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on workers’ mental health, with many experiencing increased workload and stress. But the real pandemic is actually the burnout itself.
2. Work-life balance: Employees are placing greater emphasis on achieving a healthy balance between their personal and professional lives, leading them to seek out jobs that offer more flexibility.
3. Job dissatisfaction: Many workers are reevaluating their career choices and pursuing opportunities that align better with their values, interests, and long-term goals.
4. Remote work: The shift to remote work during the pandemic has demonstrated the feasibility of working from home, prompting many employees to seek out jobs with more flexible work arrangements.

As the Great Resignation continues to unfold, it serves as a wake-up call for employers to re-evaluate their workplace policies and while employee re-imagine their life, well-being, satisfaction and work-life balance. Unless addressing these concerns, companies will not be able to retain valuable employees and foster a more engaged, motivated workforce.

More compassion for ourselves and others & the ripple effect of quitting

In a world that has experienced so much turmoil, it is important to approach the Great Resignation with compassion and understanding. Each individual’s journey is unique, and their reasons for leaving their jobs may be deeply personal. It is essential to honour these decisions and respect the bravery it takes to make such a significant change.

At the same time, there is a shift in self-awareness and show compassion towards ourselves. Quitting a job can be fraught with emotions, including fear, guilt, and uncertainty. By practicing self-compassion, we can navigate these feelings and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.

At a first glance, the Great Resignation has had far-reaching effects on the job market, companies, and the economy at large, but when you really look at the bigger picture you could see the real price humanity is paying hundreds of billions of dollars every year in mental health and absenteeism. It has prompted many organizations to reconsider their employee retention strategies, offering more flexible work arrangements, competitive benefits, and fostering a more inclusive work environment. This increased focus on employee well-being is a positive development that can lead to a healthier, more satisfied workforce.

As the Great Resignation continues to make waves, it is crucial to remember the importance of compassion, understanding, and self-discovery in the face of change. Quitting a job can be a daunting and emotional experience, but it can also be a catalyst for growth and self-improvement. By embracing this shift in perspective and supporting one another, we can foster a more balanced, fulfilling, and compassionate working world for all.

The true cost of well-being: quitting your job security or life satisfaction

A job that puts one’s well-being at risk may be a safe bet in terms of financial stability, but at what cost? The pursuit of a secure job should not come at the expense of our physical, emotional or mental health. The modern workforce is increasingly placing emphasis on the importance of well-being and personal satisfaction. Employers that prioritize the health and happiness of their employees often enjoy a more loyal, motivated and productive workforce. Let’s explore the contrasting examples of Amazon and Wieden+Kennedy (W&K) to better understand the impact of workplace conditions on employee loyalty and well-being.

Amazon, one of the largest e-commerce companies in the world, has been under scrutiny for its treatment of workers, particularly in its fulfillment centers. Employees have reported long hours, unrealistic performance expectations, and minimal breaks, leading to physical and mental exhaustion. The company has faced criticism for alleged retaliation against employees who attempted to unionize or raise concerns about workplace safety.

These conditions have taken a toll on the well-being of Amazon workers, prompting high turnover rates and raising questions about the true cost of job security. A job that compromises one’s health and happiness is not sustainable in the long run and may lead to burnout, decreased job satisfaction, and a decline in overall quality of life.

On the other end of the spectrum, Wieden+Kennedy (W&K), an independent advertising agency, boasts a long history of employee loyalty, as exemplified by Sarah Hoffman’s 40-year tenure with the company. W&K has built a reputation for its commitment to fostering a supportive and creative work environment that prioritizes employee well-being and work-life balance.

By investing in its employees and cultivating a sense of belonging, W&K has managed to retain talented individuals like Sarah Hoffman and create a thriving, innovative company culture. This emphasis on well-being has not only benefited employees but has also contributed to the agency’s long-term success.

Empowering women through time: the inspiring journey of Giselle Ruffer- Delance

Giselle Delance, a Swiss watchmaker, has dedicated her life to empowering women and creating unique timepieces that reflect the authenticity, courage, and strength of every woman. Her journey began when she realized that the watch industry lacked a timepiece that resonated with the feminine spirit and values. In pursuit of her dream, Giselle embarked on an inspiring journey, both personally and professionally, to create a watch that would become a symbol of life, harmony, and spirituality for women everywhere.

In 1994, Giselle made a life-changing decision to create a watch that would serve as a silent mentor, empowering women to reach for the sky. This mission was deeply personal for Giselle, as she sought to inspire her sisters worldwide and instil self-confidence in the feminine talent. Over the next four decades, Giselle had to challenge social conditioning, in a male dominated industry and attended thousands of international conferences, sharing her passion and drive to help women re-imagine their self-confidence and unlock their true potential.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to people worldwide, and Giselle Delance was no exception. As a person over 60, she found herself in the “at-risk” category, forcing her to re-evaluate her life and daily routines. With international travel bans in place, Giselle could no longer attend conferences or manage the distribution of Delance watches as she had done for years.

Despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic, Giselle adapted to her new reality, focusing on her morning rituals and finding balance in her daily life. Living in her family home in Switzerland, Giselle begins her day with meditation and mindfulness exercises, centering herself before diving into her work. She then spends time tending to her garden, an activity that provides both physical and mental benefits.

Throughout the day, Giselle continues to work on her watch designs and manages her business remotely, connecting with clients and collaborators through virtual platforms. She also dedicates time to researching and learning about new ways to empower women and support their growth, ensuring that her mission remains alive and thriving.

Giselle Ruffer’s journey serves as an inspiring example of resilience, determination, and adaptability. Her unwavering commitment to empowering women and creating timepieces that celebrate their spirit is a testament to her passion and dedication. Through her work and life, Giselle continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for women around the world, encouraging them to embrace their authentic selves and reach for the stars.

The need for change- learning inclusivity and empathy from the Lady Boss

As the Great Resignation continues to make headlines, it is clear that the workforce is undergoing a significant transformation. With a substantial percentage of employees, from Gen Z to Baby Boomers, considering resigning, it’s time for organizations to re-evaluate their communication styles and narratives to better cater to the evolving expectations of a multigenerational workforce.

The future workforce is diverse and brave, inspired by remarkable women like Giselle Ruffer and are surfacing against all odds from various backgrounds, age groups and life experiences. Our society needs the talent of women and adopt a more inclusive and empathetic communication style to ensure that every woman feels heard, valued, and respected. This may involve:

1. Encouraging open dialogue and active listening: Foster an environment where women feel comfortable voicing their concerns and ideas, and ensure that management is actively listening and responding.
2. Embracing diverse perspectives: Encourage women to share their unique experiences and perspectives, and leverage these insights to inform decision-making and problem-solving.
3. Providing clear and transparent communication: Ensure that all women have access to the information they need to be successful in their roles and understand how their work contributes to the organization’s overall mission.
4. Prioritizing mental health and well-being: Create a supportive work environment where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health challenges and have access to resources to help them manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Lady Boss is redefining the inner and social narrative

While women are re-imagining their life, course correcting their destiny, society must also redefine the social narratives around work, success and life purpose. This may involve:

Emphasizing purpose and impact: Today’s employees, particularly younger generations, want to feel that their work has meaning and contributes positively to society. Organizations should communicate how their mission aligns with employees’ values and demonstrate the impact of their work.

Prioritizing work-life balance and flexibility: A rigid, 9-to-5 work schedule may no longer be sustainable or desirable for many employees. Companies should embrace flexibility in work hours and locations, allowing employees to balance their professional and personal lives more effectively.

Offering opportunities for growth and development: Women want to feel that they are good enough and their work is meaningful so they can grow and develop in their careers. Companies should invest in training, mentorship programs, and opportunities for skill development to support employees’ professional growth.

Recognizing and rewarding success: Companies must ensure that they are recognizing and rewarding employees for their hard work and achievements. This includes regular feedback, career advancement opportunities, and appropriate compensation.

The future of work requires a shift in communication styles and narratives to address the evolving expectations of a diverse, multigenerational workforce. By adopting more inclusive and empathetic communication practices and redefining the narrative around work and career progression, organizations can better engage and retain employees, fostering a thriving, productive workforce for years to come. Time is no longer money, but purpose.

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