5 Signs you are at the end of a cycle

Bonjour !

First of all, welcome to the 16 new readers who joined us last week 👋

It’s interesting. Lately, every time I have talked with someone who can’t quite explain what they’re going through, like can’t find their words, but they just know something isnt quite right, I ask:

“Do you feel like you’re at the end of a cycle?”

And the relief on their face says everything.
“YES. That’s exactly it.”

For many of us, it happens every 3, 5, or 7 years.
And it’s even more obvious when you live overseas.

A few years ago, I kept telling myself I really had no reason to complain.
My life was just fine: stable job, family, routine… nothing exciting, nothing depressing…

If this sounds familiar, I have compiled for you the 5 signs to watch for:

1. Your energy drops for things that used to excite you
The mojo is gone. Tasks that once energized you now feel like obligations. or worst, you feel you are not using your full potential…

2. You feel low even when life is “fine”
Nothing is objectively wrong, yet you can’t fully relax. Even holidays don’t really recharge you.

3. You start questioning choices you never questioned before
Small but persistent thoughts appear:

Should I quit or stay?
Would I choose this job again today?
Do I still want this lifestyle?

4. Other people’s courage triggers you
When someone changes careers or moves countries, your reaction is stronger than expected : you envy them…then you feel you haven’t grown in a while.

5. You crave an outside perspective
You want space to think… but not alone anymore.
You’re looking for tools, structure, or someone to help you reflect clearly.

Then, what should be your first step?

Not quitting! I know many of you just want to throw everything away, and reset their whole career, because they want something fresh, new, & inspiring. But don’t take the move yet, you’re not ready!

First thing first: pause and clarify exactly what you want.

• Name what feels misaligned. Be exhaustive. Understand exaclty what you can’t stand anymore

• Write what you want more of and what you want less of. This will give you a clearer idea of what energizes you, and what drains you. It’s the foundation to understand what you ‘next move’ could be

• Talk it through with someone neutral. When in doubt, you need to zoom out. We’re always stronger as a team.

I can just tell you one thing: 2026 is the perfect moment to turn the page.

Why? because the market is evolving (very) fast.
Opportunities are changing and the people who will thrive are not the ones who wait, but the ones who move intentionally. That discomfort you feel is growth knocking at your door.

Maybe 2026 is simply the year you decide to open it.

You have a question? you want to know if career coaching could help in your situation? let’s have a coffee chat here ☕» it’s on me!

Have a great week!

Stephanie.