When You Hate Your Job
Many people have concerns regarding their career and fulfillment. We can often become stuck in a pattern that we recognize as unhealthy and continue to struggle despite identifying it as unhealthy. We are conditioned to believe that we should be grateful to even have permanent employment. But what happens when the cost of this job does not meet with our vision, mission or values, or even worse, becomes detrimental to your life progress?
Every professional I speak with, who has had a few years in the work arena, has a story. Despite the ubiquitous nature of the topic, thousands of employees find themselves feeling isolated, tired, depressed, unmotivated and wanting to retreat.
Signs of sickness, toxic behavior or mental stress are experienced by us all in short bursts. Long periods, however, drain energy and can lead to a shortened life span. Only you can define what is acceptable. Remember to monitor your physical and mental health throughout the process. Know that no process is the same and the steps taken to make a transition may not always be linear.
Let’s explore and address concerns that will allow you to gain some power over your circumstance; because choice equals empowerment. The mere attempt to step out of this cycle is an act of courage. The most important thing is that you commit to a process of growth. Here are outlined steps to help you through this process:
- Increase the tasks you like within your current position-This may mean additional work but if it is what you like it may give you more energy.
- Confide in trusted co-workers to gain perspective and see if your experience is shared- Try not to be overly negative. Keep it framed on struggles you are having, without pushing blame on particular persons or departments. Keep the number of co-works you share with to a minimum, because you will have a tendency to overshare and not everyone can keep this to themselves.
- Share with immediate family members of how any transitions would affect them- They can be a great source of encouragement.
- Utilize your skills and transition to another department or another area of interest- Update your resume and research what is out there for your skillset.
- Communicate with a trusted supervisor about how you feel- Perhaps they can help make a path for you or have connections outside that are valuable to your future.
- Take some time off to see if that space allows new thoughts or perspectives and actively work to change your mindset or focus.
- Engage in an activity that you know alleviates your stress (at least once a week) regardless of other responsibilities.
- Create a plan for how you would transition out of this position considering financial and life goals both long and short term- Be open to amending and restructuring as you go forward.
- Obtain professional guidance mental health, career, or spiritual professionals to help transition and continue checking in with them throughout this process. This will take time and you will change as a result so keep a support system active.
- If you believe there are illegal or unethical issues surrounding your work there should be a sense of urgency in leaving your position. This can be among the most damaging to a person’s career and sense of self and must always be a top concern.
IF YOU MUST GO:
When you leave, do so with dignity and poise. Although you may feel justified in having the last say, leave in a pleasant way with the least amount of professional damage. Any feedback given in a time of heightened discontent will be seen as “sour grapes.” Besides, if they were listening, you would probably not be leaving. Think of this as preparing for the next chapter. If there is a formal exit interview or survey that is fine but keep it professional. In the end, they only remember how you left.
