Sometimes, you don’t feel fulfilled in the work you do, and you begin to wonder if the choice of career was a wrong one. Confusion sets in, and you decide to change job in search of fulfilment. However, after changing job, you discovered its not about the job.
The fact is, if the career needs to change, changing jobs within the same career won’t solve the problem. But, how do you know you actually need a career change? You need to be sure before taking any steps. First of all, decide if it’s the workplace, or company, or boss that needs to change, and not your career.
Here are signs that will help you decide if you to make a career change.
When your health is on the line, that is an unmistakable signal that it is time to make a change. This is a no brainer. Your health is way more important than your career, and you should treat it as such. Choose your health ahead of your career.
Your self-esteem is taking a hit.
What happens at work can have a serious impact on your self-esteem. If you feel less worthy, less competent, or less valuable, it is probably time for a career change. You need to be appreciated, to have a sense of belonging and to see your own unique talents shining through.
You don’t feel challenged
Looking back over the past year, can you think of enjoyable and demanding assignments that you completed at work? If not, do you really want to waste another year in a job where you feel stagnant? Any career that is not challenging does not support growth. Therefore, it might be time to find another path.
Your relationships are suffering
Are you a workaholic spending 80 hours in the office each week? Do your family complain that they don’t spend time with you anymore? If your career is sucking the life out of you, chances are you’re miserable, and it’s affecting the people around you. Also, if your career takes much of your time that you barely have time for your family, that is a definite sign to seek out other career options.
You constantly complain about work
If you are always frustrated at the work you do, you won’t be able to do great work. Also, If you find yourself easily distracted and bored; its either because you don’t know what you’re doing or you don’t enjoy what you’re doing. It is time for a change.
Take a hard look at your values. Do they include things like freedom, flexibility, or creativity? Is your current career letting you live your values? In the long run, a career path that is closely aligned with your values is the key to professional fulfillment. So, if the answer is no, it’s time to search for better alternatives.
You sleepwalked into your current line of work
Many people fall into their career instead of choosing them. This is called career sleepwalking. Maybe a family member helped you get your first job because you simply needed a money. Or you just took the first position you could get out of school, and now you find yourself stuck. If your career seems like the result of a series of random acts rather than deliberate choices, it’s worth considering a new path.
My name is Chigozie Japhet. I am a content writer, and a brand strategist. I like writing, reading, researching and watching football, especially my team, Man United. i believe in working hard, and also in relaxation as all work without play, makes Chigozie a dull boy.
