What to do when you are unhappy with your job

A commonly used phrase amongst many working class Kenyans. For your colleagues it is just something they say without putting too much thought into it and they go on with the day as usual. For you, all you can think about is why Monday is so far away from Friday and yet Friday is so close to Monday.

How can you tell if your Monday blues are simply just Monday blues or if it may be time for a career change?

Do you feel anxious at the thought of going to work? Or do you find yourself stagnating at your job? Nothing exciting to look forward to. You do not feel like contributing at your work place. Whenever you get to work, all you can think about is when five o’clock will reach so that you can leave and go back home.

These may be signs that you are unhappy at your workplace and you may need a change. Whether permanently or temporarily.

Here are some ideas of what you can do

Consider your options

Are you at a position to quit? Will you be able to find a new job after quitting? Basically, what is your back up plan?

You do not want to find yourself in a situation where you have nothing to do after quitting your job. Set some goals for yourself to meet when you eventually quit your job or decide to make a change in your workplace.

Your decision solely relies on the reasons behind your leaving your workplace.

Keep it to yourself

Do not go around telling everyone that you want to leave. It is not a smart move. Respect the organization you are working for by showing some restraint. Imagine how awkward it will be if you told everyone that you are leaving and then end up not leaving in the long run.

Keep things in perspective

Every company has its faults, they cannot all be perfect so be open to the idea that you may face different challenges when you decide to make a drastic move in your career.

Don’t let emotions cloud your judgment

Do not let your emotions get in the way of making a critical decision. Just because you and Tom always have conflicting opinions on an idea should not be the reason behind you leaving your job.

Remember that this is your job and not a two week workshop that you can attend again.

Be careful not to burn bridges with people

When you eventually decide to make that career change, make sure not to leave on a bad note.

People talk and you do not want to be on the negative side of that talk especially when you are looking for a recommendation from your previous work place.

Connections are very important and you’ll never know when you will need them.