What to Do If You Hate Your Job
If you’re reading this article, chances are pretty good that you have at one time hated your job. We’ve all been there. But what – if anything – can we do about it?
You could always quit, of course. But quitting is likely not your best option. You can probably do some things to improve your job satisfaction without completely throwing in the towel.
What if I can’t quit my job?
If quitting your job isn’t an option, your first step should be to identify what exactly it is about your current position that you dislike so much. Are the hours too long? Do you lack passion for your current role? Are your coworkers toxic? Is your workload too heavy? Is the problematic situation permanent or temporary? Is morale low overall? Or are you having problems at home that are spilling over into your job?
I’ve identified the problem with my job.
Once you’ve identified what’s bothering you, now is the time to brainstorm if there is anything that you can do to ease or improve the problem. If the hours are too long or your workload is too heavy, set some boundaries, and have a time each day when work stops. When you lack passion, try hopping on a new project, securing some further training, or picking up a new hobby. Find something that stimulates your brain.
If your coworkers are toxic, set some boundaries. Become the person known for not taking part in gossip, and don’t tolerate unprofessionalism in the workplace. If the situation causing you distress is only temporary (i.e., a project you aren’t enjoying or the obnoxious temporary worker filling in for your friend on parental leave), remind yourself that things will get back to normal and wait it out.
When morale is low overall, try coming up with some ideas to improve it for everyone. Bring in homemade cookies on Fridays, or make it a point to compliment three people each day. Smile and be generous with encouragement. Not only will this help you feel better, but this kind of attitude is contagious.
Perhaps you’re having problems at home that are following you to work. You might be sleeping poorly, feeling depressed, stressed, or generally ill-tempered. If that’s the case, recognize it, try to address the issues at home, and do your best to leave it at the door when you come to work.
Don’t make your job your identity.
Remember, you are not what you do. Your job satisfaction does not define your self-worth. When you find yourself putting too much of your focus on your job satisfaction, make a list of things that make you YOU, outside of work. Remind yourself of your values and what is important to you. Do you satisfy your standards in those areas? If not, try focusing on becoming the type of person you admire and value.
Job dissatisfaction is a very common part of life, but it is not inevitable. Do what you can to make the necessary changes, and you’ll be loving life again soon.
About the Author
Melanie Lemus is the Communications Specialist for Vision to Purpose, where she provides self-help, business, and career-focused topics. She lives in Virginia with her wonderful husband and witty daughter. Melanie loves her freedom—in Christ and America. She’s passionate about natural health and homeopathy, and she’s always down to take a hike through the mountains.
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