Have you ever said, “I hate my job?” According to a Gallup’s World Poll, you’re not alone. Only 15% of the world’s full-time employees are engaged at work. It’s better in the US, at around 30% engaged, but worse in Japan, where only 6% are engaged.
Having visions of leaving a job for your dream job is fine, but when you start letting being miserable at work overtake your life, it’s time to rethink it. Use this moment to inspire career planning – and know what mistakes you should avoid when you’re miserable at work.
Don’t Go Blabbing
If you’re miserable, you’re probably wondering if everyone else around you is just as miserable. But you shouldn’t start asking coworkers if they hate their job too. Firstly, they might not – and now they know you do. Secondly, if they do, you’re just spreading negativity. (Think: Misery loves company.) Keep to yourself and use it as a motivator to look for something you’re more passionate about.
Don’t Get Short-Timer’s Syndrome
Sure, you start your day saying, “I hate my job,” but it doesn’t mean you should give up on caring about your work. You never know where your next job will come from. Perhaps a coworker will land one first and refer you in, maybe a vendor you work with regularly will share a new position opening at their company. You just never know, so you should strive to represent yourself and your work ethic highly, even if you’re plotting when to quit.
Don’t Put Off Looking For Another Gig
If you’re not sure when to quit your job, the best time is probably when you’ve secured your next one. But it can feel like a full-time job to look for a new job. It’s tempting to finally reach the weekend and want to unwind – but you should channel how you felt earlier in the week. Hold yourself accountable by making small goals for yourself to stay on track: connect with five new people on LinkedIn a week, apply for two new jobs over the weekend and attend one professional networking event each month. This will make finding a new job attainable.
Don’t Call In Sick All The Time
Wanting time off when you need a mental health day is ok – but try scheduling it. Your boss will certainly see through the fact that you call in “sick” once a week.
Don’t Turn Down New Assignments
This sound counterintuitive. Why would you accept new assignments, big projects or force yourself to learn something when you hope to be on your way out the door? Well, you might discover something you love. You probably think it’s a long shot, but why not dabble in something new? If nothing else, it will help you avoid the monotony at work you might be experiencing right now.
Don’t Retreat
Employee satisfaction is more than just liking your job duties. The relationships you build at work can contribute massively to your happiness. While you may hope to leave your current employer soon, don’t stop meeting new people and growing existing relationships.