Due to the current situation of my career transition this post is written around knowing when it’s time to move on. I think most women have at least that one job in their life where a change had to come. For those still in that predicament, take notes.
Back Story
3 years after getting my degree in Fashion Merchandising with a minor in Marketing, I never would of imagined I would be in a position where I absolutely hated my job. From job to job I began to think where did I go wrong and why no one was willing to give me the opportunity I was looking for. I came to the conclusion that I have to change my thought process and my hustle to get the career I want even though it won’t be easy. I’m still not where I want to be but nobody said the climb to the top would be easy breezy. I’m at the beginning stages of my journey towards success but it took a little time for me notice it was time to move on and keep it pushing. Below I share 3 signs to recognize when it’s time throw in the tile and pursue your goals elsewhere. Side note: don’t just quit a job with no back-up plan. Always have a plan in action when transitioning careers/jobs. Them bills still gotta get paid!
1. When You Constantly Think About Ways To Get Out of the Situation
At one point I hated my job so much that I began think, ‘If I quit, will I have enough funds in my savings to get by until I find another?’. The answer was obviously no. I just wanted any reason to get out. Any reason to not have to come back to work. I found any reason to call out. After comparing the skills and work ethic I put forward compared to the compensation I was getting out, it didn’t match. I began to constantly think about what better I could be doing and day dreaming about anything and everything that would take me to a better place. I had to realize the only way to actually get out of the situation is to put in the work and effort to take my life to the next level. This takes hard work and a whole lot of patience but the outcome will be great.
[Tweet “I had to realize the only way to actually get out of the situation is to put in the work and effort to take my life to the next level.”]
2. When You Don’t Feel Appreciated and Your Job Doesn’t Care About Your Growth
Feeling underappreciated is a big one especially when I know I do my job over and beyond the necessary. I’m not asking for a gold star but a little recognition and even incentive for the hard work goes a long way. I’ve always been a believer that no matter what position you’re in their needs to be an opportunity for growth and progression. I’ve worked for employers that were excited about my goals and future plans whether it was with that company or not and I’ve worked for employers who growth wasn’t even in their vocabulary. When I say growth I don’t mean getting promoted within one to two months but a least a position where you know you’re working towards something and not being stagnate.
3. Your Work Life Begins to Affect Your Personal Life
I got into a dark place where I was so unhappy that I didn’t want to go anywhere or do anything. It’s a bad feeling to have. I let my depressing work life carry into my personal life and the people around me noticed. I had to realize instead of lying in bed miserable, I could use that time outside of work to focus on other passions and enjoy myself. I began to read and educate myself on the person I wanted to become. I knew whatever I was going through was only temporary.
I would always tell my co-workers that every job is not a career and you have to know that some will only be a stepping stone to the right one. I feel like so many people get comfortable and content in their situation and never take that leap of faith forward. That’s where I was for a while until all the signs pointed me towards the exit door.