Do you find yourself jumping from one job to another, seeking happiness and satisfaction that always seems to elude you? If so, you should know that you're not alone. Plenty of people struggle to remain happy in one job. Whether it happens one year or ten years into your career, you could end up in a vicious cycle.
Are You Really Unhappy?
First, you should ask yourself if you are truly unhappy. At times, it's easy to forget about the things you once loved about a job. The monotony of life could keep you from realizing that you are still happy in your work.
Before you continue reading, take the time to think about your current state. Are you happy, unhappy, or just confused? Make a list of all the things that leave you dissatisfied, and consider how your personal life comes into play. Are you only unhappy at work because you're dissatisfied with your social life after work?
If you are unhappy and you have been in the past, you need to realize that the problem is you. If you are only unhappy at one job, then it's hard to say who's to blame. But if you've been unhappy in your past three positions, you can be sure that you are the problem. You can't keep blaming your prior employers for your situation.
What It Comes Down To
Assuming that you are to blame, the problem is that you don't know what you want. If you're not sure what you want from your job, you can't possibly find it. This results in you accepting job offers that don't satisfy all of your needs.
Typically, people hesitate to leave their comfort zones. They get unhappy at one job and look for a similar job with a different employer. Unfortunately, this is part of the issue. You won't truly find happiness in the workplace until you find the right job. A new employer won't give you everything you need to be satisfied unless the problem was with your previous employer.
Moving on with Your Career
If you want happiness, you need to move forward with your career. You can continue to find new employers, but your happiness will continue to disappear. For the best results, you may need a complete career change.
Create a List
To get started, make a list of everything you want and don't want from your next job. In the past, what has made you unhappy with your job. If something was missing, think about what you need to make the situation better.
Write a list of two columns, with one column listing the things you want from a new job and another column listing the things you don't want. As you write your list, have an open mind. Don't allow yourself to settle, and don't fool yourself into thinking you can make a job work when there's no way for it to fulfill you.
It might take you a few days to make your list. Usually, people can't think of everything that they want or dislike on the spot. Give yourself a few days to complete the list.
Think About Your Current Company
Once your list is made, think about how your current company could improve your situation. Is there another job opening with the same company that would better suit you? Check out your company's website and see what's available. If you notice any job listings that seem to check off your list, you should consider applying for them.
In any case, you may want to have a discussion with your manager. If you trust them, explain your current feelings and use your list to tell the manager what you're looking for. They may be able to change your responsibilities to make your workday better. You could also have a discussion with someone from your company's recruiting department.
Your current company might not be the best fit for you. In this situation, use your list to find a new job. There could be better opportunities waiting for you with another company.
Find Happiness Outside of Work
You may not need to change your job to find more satisfaction. Although you spend 40 or more hours in your job each week, you still have free time. By using your free time wisely, you can increase your happiness in the workplace.
It could be the perfect time to find a new hobby or to start up a side business. With the right activity, you can refresh yourself and spend less time dreading the work day. Certain hobbies can leave you ready to take on your day job.
With that said, this may not be the right solution for you. If you try a few new hobbies and nothing makes your job more enjoyable, you should consider finding a new career. A work-life balance matters, but it won't solve everything.
Explore Other Paths
If you decide there's no option but to switch jobs, don't just move from one company to another. Instead, explore other career paths. Research different careers and consider which ones satisfy all of your wants and needs.
Although switching a career takes time and sometimes money, it could be the only way to remain happy. You may need to go back to college, get a special certification, or start as an entry-level employee. But your efforts will be rewarded with a job that makes you happy.
If you are considering a career change, spend time researching the career and your desired job title. You can find a mentor, read blogs, and network with others to learn more about the career. Only make the leap if you truly believe the career will lead you to happiness.
Typically, finding a job in a new industry is difficult. But, for now, the job market is in your favor. There's a high demand for workers, and jobs are more available than ever. If there was ever a time to quit and find a new job, now is the time to do it.