We've all been there; stuck in a role you know isn't for you, or one you've clearly grown out of. Sometimes you're not sure how you got there or why you stay. Maybe it's the security, or maybe it's just easier than starting over. Either way, since you spend a large majority of your life working shouldn't you be in a role you enjoy? It's rare to get to do what you absolutely love all of the time, but if you're not happy a majority of the time--it may be time for a change.
Photo via WIX
Here are seven ways to tell it's time to move on:
You've lost your passion. Once you lose your passion for the work you do, mistakes start happening and meritocracy sets in. If you no longer have the passion to do quality work--do yourself and your employer a favor and bow out gracefully.
You're only there for a paycheck. It shows when you're only there to pay your bills. When you find yourself doing just enough to not get fired, you're not fooling anyone. This is when you need to ask yourself if the paycheck is really worth it?
You don't find yourself challenged anymore. Personal development is important in all aspects of life, particularly with your career. If you feel like you're only allowed to do mundane work and there isn't any other work to challenge you--start reevaluating.
There isn't any room for growth. If you enter a company without much growth opportunity, this can be career suicide. You need to remain on a steady growth path, or you'll date yourself out of any market. Promotions and sharpening skill sets are imperative for success. We've seen how volatile the market can be, so protect yourself by constantly evolving.
You're not appreciated or recognized for your work. It's in our nature to want to be rewarded and recognized for our work. Why do you think people set out to achieve goals or run marathons? Because they want the recognition for a job well done. Don't be afraid to notify your boss when you achieve a goal, as they are just as busy as you. From there, if you're still not recognized for your hard work--it's time to get recognition elsewhere.
The stress is more than it's worth. If you wake up with a pit in your stomach and dread going to work, it's time for another role. If you are gaining weight, depressed and overwhelmed for long periods of time--you need to reevaluate your situation. This doesn't mean you are weak or can't handle the stress, it just means you shouldn't have to anymore. Take control of your life; your body, mind, and soul will thank you for it.
You're not paid your worth. This is a big one, especially for women. My only advice here is that if you continue to let it happen, it will. Also, if you don't ask you will not receive. Don't wait to be noticed because you'll wait forever. Ask for your worth and if it's not granted--start looking.
I've been fortunate to have had some great roles throughout my career, but I also knew when it was time to move on. Just a few of these reasons above should be enough for you to weigh out your options. There are a lot of opportunities out there to cater to what you need out of life or at least give you a healthy balance, but you'll never know if you're too afraid to look. Life is too short --choose to be happy.
Article originally featured on hollyrust.com.