DEAR HARRIETTE: I’ve dedicated nearly a decade to the tech industry, diligently working for the same company. Recently, however, I’ve felt increasingly dissatisfied and unfulfilled in my role. Despite my apprehensions, I gathered the courage to draft a resignation letter. Now, uncertainty clouds my thoughts. What if I struggle to secure another position in this competitive field? Will I regret leaving behind the stability and routine I’ve relied on for so long? Balancing these concerns with my current living situation – a mortgage to pay and a growing family of four to support – makes this decision even more daunting. I would appreciate any advice you could offer in this career crossroads. – Uncertain in My Career DEAR UNCERTAIN IN MY CAREER: Take a pause before you do anything. I recommend that you do your research to determine what you want to do next. Is there another company that interests you in your field? Perhaps you can find excitement for your work if you take your talents to a different company that may value you more. You should look for a job while you still have your current job. I do not think you should resign without finding another job first.

On one side is a lifetime politician who has spent almost a half-century in elected office; on the other side is a relative political newcomer who disdains the political experience that his rival has accumulated. On one side is a leader who has respect for the conventional practices of politics; on the other is a leader whose entire identity is wrapped up in destroying the conventional. On one side is an elderly man who believes that past practices are adaptable to contemporary circumstances; on the other is an elderly man whose campaign is based on defiance of past practices. On one side is a political veteran who by virtue of longevity and, now, inclination, is an establishment figure; on the other is an outsider who has contempt for the inside game.

DEAR HARRIETTE: I am very introverted, and I find it challenging to find my footing when I’m in group settings. I recently moved to a new city and have been trying to build up my social network, but I’m struggling to make genuine connections because of my introversion. When I am one-on-one with a person, I feel more comfortable, but as soon as another person gets added to the mix, I become the third wheel. I often find myself on the sidelines, watching everyone else interact without participating in the conversations. It feels like everyone around me effortlessly engages in jokes and storytelling; meanwhile, I struggle to insert myself into the flow of conversation. By the time I think of something to say, the topic has usually changed, and I miss my chance to contribute. This leaves me feeling isolated and somewhat invisible, despite being physically present. I want to break out of my shell and find ways to engage more confidently in group interactions. Is introversion something that I can change about myself, or is it something that may stay with me forever? – Don’t Want To Be Introverted DEAR DON’T WANT TO BE INTROVERTED: I have spoken to a number of people who consider themselves to be introverts who have “overcome” their inability to engage in the ways that concern you. One successful CEO told me that she prepares in advance so that she has a few key topics she wants to discuss when she is speaking with others in social settings. That helps her not to be flat-footed in awkward moments. She also admits that she uses a tremendous amount of energy to be engaging when in the company of others and needs quiet recovery time later.

In Moldova, a false video implied that a pro-Western president actually favored Russia. In Bangladesh, a conservative Muslim country, a female lawmaker was portrayed wearing a bikini. In Slovakia, a doctored audio tape made it seem that an anti-Moscow candidate wanted to double the price of beer.