December 2024 Newsletter

Trapped in a Job

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I know how challenging it can be to feel trapped in a job you don’t love. (read “hate”). If quitting isn’t an immediate option, there are ways to manage your issues, protect your well-being, and plan for a better future.

I have put together a few tips to help you through. Some steps you can take now and some things to think about over the Christmas break.

Remember, I have been where you are twice in my life. It sucks.

Focus on What You Can Control

This seems obvious, but it is often overlooked. It’s easy to feel powerless in a job that is not working for you, so dig deeper and see what you can control.

Record what you can control, like asking for support from your boss, taking charge of your downtime, or setting boundaries on after-hours work.

On the flip side, list what’s out of your hands. Don’t waste energy on things you can’t change.

Reframe the Situation

Consider the positive aspects—like a regular paycheck, friendships with coworkers, or a structured routine. Understand that these can provide some perspective, even if it doesn’t change everything.

Spending time on meaningful activities outside of work can bring happiness and purpose. Sports, volunteering, learning a new skill, or just connecting with friends all help put your work frustrations in perspective.

Talk it Out

When frustrations pile up, try talking to someone outside of work—a friend, family member, or even a professional or mentor—can help relieve stress. Venting and ranting to someone who understands can make a tremendous difference when things get overwhelming. You will feel much better after a good rant.

Is It Time to Move On?

After doing all the above and your job is consistently affecting your physical or mental health, then get serious, it is probably time to change.

Here are a few signs it might be time to look for new opportunities:

If you find yourself endlessly Googling “I hate my job” or daydreaming about different careers, it is time. You’re ready for a new direction.

If you dream about starting your own business, it’s worth exploring that dream further. Entrepreneurship can be challenging, but it does make you in control.

If you dread Monday mornings and the thought of a new week fills you with dread, it may be time to ask yourself, “What’s keeping me here”. Is it truly worth it?

If you’ve asked for a raise but it falls on ‘deaf ears’, it may be a sign you don’t rate. In the entire scheme of things, you’re just a commodity. Get out. Be valuable to someone else.

Workplace stress is affecting your health. This is a big deal. Get on it quickly. This can lead to a host of health issues, from insomnia, headaches, anger management, family issues, alcoholism, addictions and even heart issues. If work stress is compromising your health, fix it.

You are just not happy. Sometimes, it is just that simple. If you’ve lost passion for your work and feel consistently unhappy, a fresh start may be the answer.

Start Building Your Exit Strategy

If you can’t leave your job right away, you can start building an exit strategy. Update your resume, start networking and make it known you’re open to new opportunities. Build a financial cushion. Set your goals. Plan your exit thoughtfully and concisely. This will give you confidence and direction. This will eliminate most of the risk.

Self-Care and Next Steps

Keep practising self-care. While you are working your way through this phase, look after your physical and mental health. Record or journal every day. This is powerful.

Having supportive family and friends and caring for yourself can build the toughness you need to make changes.

If you’d like to learn more, re-visit my website Mentoraus.com for pretty much everything you need to know to make the transition.

Your working life is 40-50 years sometimes more. Don’t you think it will be more fun to love what you do rather than hating Monday morning and stressing out Sunday night, knowing it all starts again tomorrow?

The thing is when you think about it. It is you. You are the master of your destiny. The buck stops with you for better or worse. Make it better. You got this.

Have a wonderful Christmas break. Relax, think, and take care. I will be back in the new year.

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