3 Signs You're in an Unfulfilling job

• Rich DeMatteo
• May 29, 2021
• Newsletter Article

Not feeling satisfied or fulfilled at work? What are the causes, and what are your options? Consider what you need to do to improve your work situation, or if it's time to search for a new job.

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Are you feeling unfulfilled in your workplace?

 

Many of us do, and there are lots of reasons why. In such circumstances, we have several options. 

• We could do nothing and continue in the same job role that offers us no meaning. 
• Or we could find ways to make the job more meaningful, perhaps through a promotion that gives us fresh challenges. 
• Or we could opt for a career change, and follow a new path that brings us more fulfillment. 

 

Needless to say, the first option is the worst of the bunch. As we spend most of our lives at work, we would be doing ourselves a massive disservice if we didn’t do something to make ourselves happier.

 

So, what about you? Are you in an unfulfilling job? The following signs suggest you might be.  

 

#1: You have outgrown your role

If you have been in your workplace for a while, it might be that there are no new challenges for you. You might be able to do your job with ease, and while this can be comforting, it can also cause you anxiety if you aren’t growing and developing. Getting promoted could be the answer or a transfer to a new sector of your company. If your boss won’t give you room to develop, it might also be time to look for work with an employer who will give you room to progress.

 

#2: You feel as if you aren’t making a difference in the world

If your job doesn’t let you fulfill your compassionate side, now might be the time to move into a more meaningful career. There are those jobs that will put you on the front line of care, such as teaching, nursing, and social work, and there are those where you can work behind the scenes to make a difference. So, look for opportunities such as these if you aren’t making much of a difference where you are. And in the short term, perhaps consider voluntary work outside of your everyday career. 

 

#3: Your only motivation to stay in your job is your paycheck

Money is important, of course, as you wouldn’t be able to pay your bills without it. However, there should be other reasons to stay in a job beyond your weekly or monthly paycheck. It might be an opportunity to do something more meaningful, for example. Or it could be the opportunity to work in an industry that fuels your creative passions. So, never let money override your need for greater job satisfaction, as you will be limiting your life if you do. Look for well-paid jobs by all means, but consider those other important facets that will make you feel more fulfilled at work.

 

So, if you woke up today with a feeling of dread about going into work, consider what you might need to do to improve things for yourself. A career change might be the answer, or you might want to look for new opportunities on the path you are already on. Doing something is better than doing nothing to change the way you feel, so explore your options today.