Money vs Purpose: Should you leave a job that you love for a pay raise?
So, here’s the situation:
The job? Pretty great. The work feels meaningful, the team clicks, and the culture just fits. There’s even room to grow. It’s not perfect, but hey, it’s close.
And then — bam — an offer lands.
New role, unfamiliar company, tasks that seem interesting enough…
But the kicker? A serious salary upgrade.
Now comes the tough part:
Do you go for the money? Or stay for the meaning?
This question hits harder than it used to. Especially for those trying to build not just a career in the sports industry, but a life that actually feels good.
And let’s be honest: it’s not a hypothetical anymore. Most people will face this crossroads at least once.
So, how do you decide?
What’s the deal with more money?
Let’s not pretend money doesn’t matter. Of course it does.
Anyone who’s ever stressed about rent, savings, or even affording a proper holiday knows that financial stability isn’t a luxury, but peace of mind.
- It buys freedom. The freedom to say no. To plan a sabbatical. To choose projects because they excite, not because they pay.
- It builds security. Think long-term: emergency funds, retirement plans, or a runway if the next job takes time to find.
- It boosts your future value. Salary history often sets the baseline for what’s next. More now could mean even more later. Or better benefits for the same money.
There’s power in earning well.
It opens doors. It lowers anxiety.
Sometimes, it’s exactly what’s needed.
But what about purpose?
Here’s the other side of the medal: the one that keeps people in jobs even when headhunters come calling.
Purpose doesn’t show up on a payslip.
But it shows up in everything else:
How you feel when Monday rolls around. Whether you’re drained or energised after a workday. If what you do feels like it matters.
- A fulfilling job brings more than tasks. It brings meaning.
- It aligns with values, goals, and how someone wants to show up in the world.
- It makes eight hours a day feel less like a drain and more like a rhythm that flows.
And then there’s the team factor.
A supportive, kind, inspiring team? Priceless.
When that’s already in place, it’s worth asking: Is it really worth trading that for a few extra digits?
Because let’s be honest: Even the best-paying job can feel empty when the culture is toxic or the work feels disconnected.
Still stuck? Try this:
Ask the real questions.
- What’s driving the urge to leave, excitement or frustration?
- Are values being met in the current role?
- Is the new job offering something that’s truly missing… or just more money?
- How will this choice feel six months down the road?
Here’s the thing: it’s not always a clear yes or no.
Sometimes, a higher salary is the right move. Especially if it means breathing room.
Sometimes, staying put brings the deeper payoff. It can mean growth, connection, joy.
A better rule: time = value
Money matters. Meaning matters.
But at the core of it all, there’s this:
If a job takes up 40+ hours of your week, it better give something back.
Whether that’s money, learning, freedom, purpose — ideally a mix — there has to be value in exchange for time.
That value doesn’t have to be flashy. It just has to be real.
Don’t stop looking
The perfect job? Maybe it exists.
Fair pay, a mission that sparks something inside, smart people, good vibes, career growth. All in one.
And honestly? That combo is out there. Especially in an industry like sports and outdoor, where passion and purpose are already part of the DNA.
It’s okay to chase that.
It’s also okay to take a detour.
Just don’t forget: your time, energy, and well-being are worth more than any number on a paycheck.
Curious to explore new roles where passion meets profession?
Check out the latest opportunities on our job board. Who knows, your perfect match might be waiting.