4.3.2. Unsupportive Employers

Reevaluating respondents (16.1%) also mentioned they had decided to make a change because they did not feel supported by their employers, either resulting from a lack of family-friendly policies or unrealistic expectations during a challenging year. For example, one woman said, "I don't expect to advance within my company because I intend to find an arrangement that will allow me to work the large majority of the time from home. I don't see my current leadership being on board with this plan, so I will likely have to change companies to get the position that allows for this arrangement".

A second explained, "I am considering taking a step back at this time to better support my child's education and emotional needs. This has been a very difficult decision. when I am on a great path, but unfortunately my employer does not provide support for me as a mother to grow in my career and support the needs of my family".

Finally, one participant stated, "Because of the pandemic and my employer's response, I am actively seeking new work in a less demanding environment. I anticipate taking a significant pay cut, immediately and over the course of my career as a result".

#### 4.3.3. General Reevaluation

Additional reasons for career reevaluation varied. Some respondents realized they should pursue additional education, others saw a holistic shift of priorities in their lives, while additional participants realized they no longer wanted to work. One woman plainly stated, "I realize I need to get higher education". Another explained, "I find myself questioning if my short- and long-term goals are even an option anymore. I don't know what to expect in the coming year, let alone the next five". A third said that "it has encouraged me to think outside the box and try to pursue other opportunities in order to advance my career", while another participant explained, "I felt often that the pandemic made me question priorities when it came to work, finances, and family". A final example included, "I'm thinking of quitting and just staying home in the future if that becomes a viable option".
