There’s no such thing as the perfect job. No matter how much you love what you do, every job has its ups and downs. You may wish to call it quits if you’ve been experiencing too many downs lately. Perhaps you’re bored or disappointed. Maybe you’ve had too many long hours, a lot of pressure with tight deadlines, or generally poor work-life balance.
Before you quit, take a step back and evaluate whether there are ways you can improve your current situation. After all, there was one point where you were very excited to begin this endeavor. Is there a way to get back to that mindset before throwing in the towel and searching for a different role?
1) Discover (or rediscover) your purpose
After being in one specific job role for a while, it’s easy to forget why you do what you do. Revisit your role’s purpose and how it directly impacts your company and contributes to the mission. What difference are you making in people’s lives? How are you contributing to the good of general society? Acknowledging the meaning behind what you do every day will increase job satisfaction. You may rediscover your passion for the role in which you play a vital part.
2) Set new challenges and goals
When you repeatedly complete the same type of assignments, feel unchallenged, and never learn anything new, it’s easy to get bored. Develop new goals with a clear plan on how you can achieve them. Proactively seek new and challenging projects that will improve company efficiencies or further your organization’s mission. Your manager will appreciate your willingness to accept new challenges and may even suggest a reskill or upskill plan for you. The goal here is to get out of your comfort zone and try something new and exciting. You may even discover unique strengths or things you enjoy doing. In turn, you will find your job more fulfilling.
3) Find new ways of doing the same old things
While finding new and exciting tasks is always fun, most jobs include some responsibilities that must repeat. Challenge yourself to approach these daily tasks in a new way. That may consist of when, where, or how you complete them. Changing things up can positively impact your job satisfaction and help you be more productive.
4) Build strong relationships
Studies show that if employees with strong workplace friendships are more likely to be happier and more motivated at work. There are so many ways to build positive relationships in the workplace. Start by taking a genuine interest in your colleagues’ lives. Help them out with a project. Become (or find) a mentor. Ask co-workers about their hobbies and interests outside of work. Developing friendships at work contributes to your overall job satisfaction, but it could also improve your self-esteem while helping you develop interpersonal and managerial skills.
5) Steer clear of negativity
If possible, distance yourself from negative people in the workplace. This includes those who regularly gossip, complain, or display other negative behaviors. Being around negativity will naturally bring you unhappiness. In the same way, surrounding yourself with positive colleagues will support a happier work experience. Surround yourself with encouragers. After all, everyone needs encouragement every once in a while.
6) Discuss your situation with your manager
It’s okay to admit to your manager that you would like more challenging work or different assignments. Assuming you are a valued employee, a great manager will help you identify ways you can find more meaningful work. This may mean redefining your role or finding a different one within the company that better aligns with your talents. When approaching your manager, make sure you bring some ideas to the table on ways you can change the situation. Do not expect your manager to wave a magic wand and produce your dream job. You know you (and your talents and interests) best. Likewise, don’t make it a complain-fest about all of the tedious tasks associated with your job. Instead, focus on the parts you’d like to change to make it more fulfilling. Remember to articulate how any suggested changes will positively impact the organization.
7) Celebrate accomplishments
It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind or feel overwhelmed during busy seasons. It’s essential to remember your achievements and celebrate them. Reflect on your wins, both big and small. Talk about the projects you’re proud of and those that made a difference. Remembering your previous victories reminds you of the good you do and can help you look forward to that next victory. Keep yourself motivated and excited about your role and your organization.
Job satisfaction is crucial. After all, you will spend approximately one-third of your life working. If you find yourself unhappy in your current role, consider how you can impact your own satisfaction level before you call it quits. Because while you can leave a job, you’re still coming with you! Take the opportunity to grow and develop as a person.
If you do not have an HR PARTNER, Tandem HR is happy to help.
Give us a call today at (630) 928-0510.