Should I change jobs? Signs you're ready for a career change
Feeling gloomy at your job? Here are some signs you should change jobs:
Should I change jobs? | Sign #1: You feel stressed - all the time
We all feel a little overwhelmed by work occasionally, but if you’re constantly battling work-induced stress, something’s not right.
The most common cause of stress is work-related stress, with 79% of respondents saying they frequently feel it. When stress levels increase, productivity decreases, which has a detrimental impact on focus and concentration. As a result, you are easily distracted and more likely to make mistakes.
You may find yourself phoning in sick more often to cope with your stress levels or turning up to work but being unproductive (presenteeism).
That doesn’t mean you necessarily need to leave your job - it might just be a case of addressing the problem with your employer. But it could also mean that your job is no longer right for you.
Should I change jobs | Sign #2: You feel burnt out
If you’re constantly exhausted by Tuesday evening despite a restful weekend, you might be experiencing burnout.
Workplace burnout can happen for various reasons, including impossible expectations, a lack of work/life balance, a toxic work environment and information overload. Burnout can cause stress, health problems and even depression.
If you’re experiencing burnout, it’s a good idea to speak with your employer so they can help you make changes or solve problems. Check if your employer offers an employee assistance program and review the services it offers.
Again, identifying the cause of your burnout might help you address the problem with your employer, but you might prefer to start afresh with a new company.
Should I change jobs? | Sign #3: You feel negative about work
Do you find yourself ranting to your partner about an incompetent colleague or always moaning about your horrible boss? We hate to break it to you, but the problem might not be everyone else…
It’s easy to fall into the trap of negative thinking, but the truth is that dissatisfaction is rarely caused by others alone. Here are some common signs you’re unhappy at work:
- Procrastination
- Lack of initiative
- Reduced interactions with colleagues
- Poor performance
- Burnout
- Stress
If you’re constantly feeling negative about work, it’s a sign to move on to something that you enjoy more.
Should I change jobs? | Sign #4: You always wonder, ‘What if?’
Perhaps you always dreamed of becoming a marine biologist. Maybe you daydream about becoming a screenwriter. Whatever it is, if you find yourself constantly wondering about an alternative career path, then it might be time to give it a go.
While nothing is inevitable, and changing careers to pursue something unknown can be risky, following your passions can often lead you to exciting, more satisfying places.
Check out our blog, ‘Is it time to change careers?’ for more information.
Changing jobs | Sign #5: You’re not giving it your all
Find yourself doing your job half-heartedly? Here’s the problem: you get minimal rewards when you give minimal effort. You can also feel dissatisfied, bored and filled with regrets. A halfhearted mindset is all about having a cushion to fall back on if you don’t succeed. You might tell yourself, “Oh, I could’ve succeeded if I actually tried my best; I’ll try harder next time”. But we aren’t always guaranteed a ‘next time’.
There’s no need to feel this way. If your job doesn’t excite you and it’s just a way of paying your bills, it’s probably time to consider changing careers to something you’re passionate about.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re convinced it’s time for a career change or just thinking about changing jobs, why not contact someone on our team to chat about your options and ask for advice? Get in touch with our team here and let us find your perfect match.
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