Sunk costs are those feelings that make it hard to change direction even when you’re aware that something isn’t working anymore. The thoughts go something like this: “I’ve spent so much time, money, and effort, how can I walk away now? Wouldn’t it all be wasted?”
Have you felt that before?
I definitely have. People often ask why I didn’t stay in the linguistics field after spending years studying, researching, and writing papers. Sometimes, I admit, a little doubt sneaks in; Did I waste all that time? But the truth is, those years taught me something important and gave me clarity. For me, the work environment matters. Who I work with, what the expectations are, how much autonomy I have in carrying out my work. And understanding that about myself was worth the investment on its own.
And here’s the funny thing about life. It loops back in unexpected ways. My love for language came back to me through completely different channels, and now I get to use what I learned in a space that actually fits me.
There’s a fine line between persevering through something challenging and recognizing when it’s time to shift. And honestly, it’s one of the trickiest decisions to make. Here are a few questions and reminders to help you figure out whether you’re moving forward with intention, or simply staying because of sunk-cost feelings.:
- Why do you want to overcome this challenge? What benefit will it bring you, emotionally, financially, spiritually, or professionally?
- Remember: the time, money, and effort you’ve invested were valuable either way. They taught you what you needed to know to either continue or redirect.
- Something you let go of may return when the timing is right. You can absolutely pause till the right moment comes. You’re not “giving up.” You’re creating space for something that fits you better right now.
- Does this path support who you’re becoming? Sometimes we outgrow goals we set years ago, and that’s okay.
- Does staying drains you or grows you? Exhaustion is information; fulfillment is information, too.
