Figuring out when it’s time to leave your current job can be difficult and scary, but it may be an essential choice for your well-being and career progression. It’s been reported by Forbes that over half American employees are discontent at work with almost 70% feeling unengaged in their roles according to a Gallup poll. Finding satisfaction in your job is vital, as negative emotions towards your work can lead to unnecessary stress and potentially impact your health.
In earlier times, it was common to stick with one career until retirement, but this unwritten rule doesn’t hold up anymore. A recent CNN article suggested that the average person will have changed jobs at least four times by the time they’re 32, and this doesn’t include part-time roles held during college. Nowadays, it’s perfectly acceptable to seek new opportunities, shift career trajectories or even venture into entrepreneurship.
Here are six indicators suggesting you might want to consider moving on from your current position:
1. YOU’RE UNDERUTILIZED
If your job is no longer stimulating or challenging, there’s a chance it could lead to stagnancy. Having a dull job may seem wasteful as there is a lack of growth and learning opportunities which eventually leads to dissatisfaction. When your job doesn’t capitalize on your full potential or your eagerness to learn new skills, it might be more beneficial to find a position where you can grow, potentially with a higher pay.
2. LOSS OF PASSION
Have your interests evolved since you first started? Do you have new career aspirations? Being in a job which no longer excites you can feel restrictive and hinder your happiness. If you’re less enthusiastic about your current role, consider internal job changes or pursuing passions outside of work.
3. LACK OF FEEDBACK
Without constructive feedback from your superiors, professional development can be tough. Not knowing if you’re on the right track can do more harm than good. If your managers aren’t invested in your professional growth by providing advice and regular performance reviews, you might consider looking for growth opportunities elsewhere.
4. NO GROWTH OPPORTUNITY
While on professional growth, it’s crucial to have advancement opportunities within your company. Jobs with no room for promotion or pay rise might lead you to question your future there and contemplate moving on.
5. POOR WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Balancing work and personal life is paramount for sustained career satisfaction. A company that pushes for overtime and doesn’t value personal time may offer a disappointing work-life balance. Prioritize your mental health and personal life, even if it means sacrificing a well-paying job.
6. A BETTER OPPORTUNITY ARISES
You might love your current role, but an irresistibly promising prospect could make you reconsider. Whether it’s a lucrative job offer from a recruiter or your side hustle picking up pace, it could be the push you need to take the leap.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Leaving a job, especially for financial reasons, can be daunting. Ensuring that your finances are in order before quitting is crucial, even if you’ve secured a higher-paying position. It’s important to have a robust emergency fund, a consistent saving routine, and a seamless transition in benefits. Also, adapting your budget to your new income and eliminating unnecessary expenses can alleviate financial stress.
Have you ever quit a job due to these signs? How did you navigate the change?
