Why Hating Your Job is a Waste of Time
Today’s post will resonate with many twentysomethings who don’t like their jobs and still have the opportunity to do something about it. I agree with author, Jesse, when he says you don’t HAVE to accept career dissatisfaction as part of growing up. Although changing jobs or industries may sometimes take a LONG time, it is entirely possible. BUT, it requires consistent action instead of consistent complaining. Do you hate YOUR job? What are you doing about it? -Nicole
Some people will have you believe that hating your job is something you will have to come to accept as a part of growing up and entering the workforce. Although there are aspects of every job that may be less than ideal, being filled with dread before each work day is a much more serious condition than facing minor annoyances throughout the workday. Regardless of the compensation that you may receive from a job you hate—higher pay, shorter hours, health benefits—the trade-off for your happiness and sense of purpose within your job often makes the perks seem insignificant by comparison. Remember that the main reason to have a job in the first place is to enjoy autonomy and financial security. When put in this perspective, having a job that forces you to sacrifice your happiness and well-being seems counterproductive in its very nature.
Ask Yourself What You Want
Although the job market may not necessarily be welcoming to newcomers, there are still opportunities available that can help you advance in your current career or switch to a new one to receive more fulfillment from your job. The first thing you have to do is identify what it is about your job that causes you the most dissatisfaction. Identifying problems within the job is the only way you will be able to determine appropriate and effective solutions. For example, if your biggest concern is your salary and benefits, this could potentially be solved by moving up within the company. If your problem lies with the industry you are in, you might have to seek more drastic solutions.
Take a Second Look at Education
One of the best ways you can set yourself up for advancement in your industry, or get your foot in the door in a preferred industry, is by extending your education. Acquiring an advanced degree in your field or a standard degree in the field of your choice can often be as easy as opening up your laptop. Widespread availability of online programs, or online class alternatives at traditional institutions can give you the opportunity to work toward furthering your education while keeping up with the demands at work. Although you can commit to a degree track, it may also be beneficial to just take a few advanced classes to give you an extra edge in your job search.
Get Info
The Internet is also an excellent tool for expanding your professional network after office hours. Conducting an effective job search while still meeting the requirements of your current job can be difficult, but websites like LinkedIn make it more accessible and convenient for you to connect with individuals in the industries of your choice. Additionally, social networking can allow you to increase your visibility and appeal in the job market, which means that potential employers can find you instead of the other way around. Through LinkedIn and other social networking websites, you have the opportunity to reach out to professionals of all kinds to obtain job leads and advice on how to find a job that is better-suited for your needs.
Your job shouldn’t make you feel trapped or unfulfilled. Understanding and taking full advantage of the opportunities available to you is the only way to find success in your preferred industry, while gaining more self-satisfaction from your job.
If you’re unhappy at work, do you know what type of job or career you’d prefer instead?
If you don’t know what you want to do yet, how are you going about finding your path?
What would you recommend for others who are unsure of their next career move?
Do you think some people will always be unhappy at work?
