I hope that this question made you pause and reflect, because your response could be key to your happiness and satisfaction at work.
If you are among the majority of Americans, you do not love your work. However, you can change this.
You may have become complacent or tolerant of work that no longer satisfies you. Unable to see a way out or hope for change, you may have become resigned to your situation.
But, you can decide otherwise.
First of all, consider whether there are any conditions under which you'd love your current job. If you are hard pressed to come up with any, then the handwriting may be on the wall. You'd probably be better off in another position, company or career. But which is it? That's an important distinction to make and the following scenarios might help you:
If you enjoy working for your employer, but don't feel challenged or engaged in your work, then assuming new responsibilities or a different position might reengage you. Talk with your boss about where you could add value or how your job description could be modified to better suit your current interests and skills set.
If you enjoy your responsibilities, but not necessarily your co-workers, supervisor, or work environment, then the grass may in fact be greener with another employer. As you investigate the options in another company or organization, keep in mind the specific questions you should ask to avoid going from the frying pan into the fire.
If you are no longer interested in the overall subject matter of your field and cringe at the thought of reading a professional journal or work-related book, then perhaps it's time to imagine a new career direction. You may even have a few ideas in mind. If that's true, then take time to investigate these possibilities. But, remember, you don't have to commit to anything before you know it's the right direction.
Life is short…Live your life. Love your work.
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Barbara is currently accepting applications for her ninth annual Women's Retreat in Provence. Click on the link for photos and more details!
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Barbara and Heart At Work associate, Amy Jaffe, will co-present a workshop:
"Averting Quarterlife and Midlife Crises in Your Workplace: 5 Key Retention Strategies" at the 2008 Annual Human Resources Convention in Rockport, Maine on May 8.
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