“Who Are You Hugging?” — Why Fear Is Keeping Executives Stuck in Jobs

Hire Yourself Podcast with Pete Gilfillan

Are you hugging your job out of fear? You’re not alone—but you don’t have to stay stuck.

In this episode, Pete Gilfillan unpacks a Wall Street Journal article titled “Job Hugging Is In for Fearful Workers” and breaks down why so many high-level professionals are holding on to corporate roles—even when they’re unfulfilling, insecure, or unsustainable. If you’re afraid to leave but know you’re meant for more, this episode will show you a better path.

In this episode, Pete discusses:

1. Fear-Based Comfort is a Trap
Executives are clinging to jobs because of uncertainty—not because they’re thriving. But fear is a terrible long-term strategy.

2. Jobs No Longer Guarantee Security
You’re a number. Companies restructure, automate, and lay off—even their best people. Business ownership gives you true income security.

3. Career Clinging = Growth Stagnation
Hugging a job you’ve outgrown leads to burnout, not progress. Entrepreneurship keeps you learning, growing, and evolving.

4. You’ve Lost Leverage in Today’s Job Market
Hiring is down. Raises are rare. Flexibility is fading. As a business owner, you hold the power—not your employer.

5. You Should Be Hugging Your Family—Not a Job
Time, emotional energy, and purpose belong with loved ones—not a corporation. Business ownership helps you protect what matters most.

Key Takeaways:

• Holding on to a job out of fear will cost you more than it protects.
• Your job won’t love you back—but your family and your purpose will.
• Franchising offers a proven, guided way to regain control of your future.
• Stop hugging your job. Start building something of your own.
• Now is the time to take control, before you're forced to.

“Fear keeps you stuck. Purpose sets you free. Stop hugging your job and start hugging the people and life that truly matter.” — Pete Gilfillan

CONNECT WITH PETE GILFILLAN:
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petegilfillan/
🌐 Website: https://www.hireyourself.com/

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