Whether you hate it or it’s simply leaving you empty and unfulfilled, not enjoying your work can be, well… the worst.
For many of us, our work is an essential part of life. We spend a significant portion of our lives at work, and it can have a profound impact on our mental and physical well-being.
But what happens when you hate work, your current position or your company and find yourself Googling "I hate my job"... again?
6 steps to take when you have a job you hate:
Depending on if it's the work itself, the environment, or the people you work with, hating your job can make every day feel like a struggle. Before you head out on that job search, let's look at what to do when you hate your job and are feeling stuck and and need to find a new way forward.
1. Take a step back and evaluate the situation
The first step to take when you hate your job is to take a big step back and evaluate the situation.
Try to identify the root cause of your unhappiness. Is it the work you're doing? Is it the work environment? Is it the people you work with? By identifying the root cause, you can start to figure out what next steps are needed to take to improve the situation.
You should also evaluate if it's the job, role, field or your personal life that is causing you to dislike your current job.
2. Talk to someone about it
It's essential to talk to someone about how you're feeling. Whether it's a friend, family member, co workers or therapist, talking about your job can help you gain some perspective and provide support. Choose someone that has your mental health as a priority.
Sometimes, simply talking about your situation can make you feel better and help you identify potential solutions. Be open minded and honest about your current job and what you think you want from a new position.
3. Look for a new job (& start applying for jobs you'll fall in love with)
If you've evaluated the situation and determined that it's the current position or job that isn't a good fit, it's most likely time to start looking for a different job or possibly a new career.
Make sure to update your LinkedIn profile, resume and start networking ASAP. Use job search websites, professional associations, and social media to find job opportunities. Remember to present the skills and experience you want to use int he future that can help you transition into a new role.
You should also be conscious of work life balance, company culture, and benefits you need, like health insurance.
4. Try to improve your current situation
If leaving your job isn't an option, try to improve your current situation. Talk to your boss about your concerns and see if there are any changes that can be made to your work environment or job responsibilities.
If you're not getting along with your co-workers, try to find ways to improve your relationship with them. Sometimes, small changes can make a big difference.
Negative feedback, a bad boss and feeling stuck may make you want to write that resignation letter and quit today but if you're unable to, get ready (and willing) to have some tough conversations with your current employer.
5. Invest in your personal development
Yes, getting out of your current job is a priority but investing in your personal life will make the job hunt for that next job easier and will afford you more job satisfaction as you enter a new position.
How? Novelty. Our brains crave novelty. It's imperative for our overall well being and mental and health. You've probably felt a bit drained I'm guessing. Well, learning something new, something that's interesting to you can work wonders on your confidence, self-esteem and chronic stress.
If you're looking to make a career change, investing in your personal development can lead you to a better opportunity!
This is the time to take that course, learn that thing, try something new and focus on your whole self, not just your professional life.
6. Focus on self-care
When you hate your job, it's easy to let it consume your life. It's essential to focus on self-care and prioritize your mental and physical well-being.
Make time for activities you enjoy, get enough sleep, and eat well. Engage in activities that reduce stress, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature. Whatever it is that allows for rest, relaxation, recharging and good mental health.
Hating your job can be a challenging experience that affects your mental and physical health, and sadly it's not uncommon. It's essential to evaluate the situation, talk to someone about it, look for a new job if necessary, try to improve your current situation, and focus on self-care.
Remember that you're not alone, and there are always job offers and other options available to help you find a way forward and possible into that dream job (once you've got that escape plan on lock!).
Yours in, you got this!, goodness,
EBS
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EB Sanders | Career Coach for Creative Types
Helping you figure out what work works for you!
