The festivities are coming to an end. The celebrations are winding down. The New Year is upon us. For most, this means getting back to business as usual after a revitalizing break. Returning to their daily routine and doing what they love. Others are not so lucky. These individuals have a hard time getting back into the swing of things after the holidays. But is this a temporary rut after the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, or is there a bigger issue? Maybe you are complacent in your current position and need to apply for that promotion. Or perhaps you need to take that leap of faith and shift your career path altogether. Although we may miss or ignore them, there are often signals that it is time to make a professional move.
Here are the signs to look out for when it is time to make that career move in the New Year!
1. You dread going to work. There have been many occasions where the snooze button is pressed a few too many times or it’s hard to get started, but that should not be a daily struggle. If you find yourself anxious on Sunday nights or solemn when it is time to get out of bed in the morning, perhaps a new job is in order.
2. You are increasingly rude to your coworkers. Personality conflicts will occur, but if you find yourself more irritable or snappy than usual with your boss or coworkers there may be a bigger issue going on. Whether you manage others or work on a team, having a short temper with those around you often means that you are unhappy where you are.
3. There has been a shift in your ingenuity or motivation. If you were once the go-to for ideas or source of inspiration for others and are now lacking imagination, perhaps you need to reevaluate your situation. Reduced initiative is a clear indication that you may need to contemplate a new occupation.
4. Your productivity is down. When you are just going through the motions and not giving your all, there will be a decrease in work quality. A decline in your output and efficiency can be the most noticeable sign that something is different or a little off. But try to stay on top of things until you know your next move as you may need a referral or recommendation in the future.
5. You are easily distracted. Are you constantly looking at your cell phone or scrolling through social media and not focused on the task at hand? This can be a sign of boredom and complacency as you are looking for the next distraction. It may be time to look for a job that can keep your attention and where you can remain focused.
6. It is just not fun anymore. If the only thing that you are excited about is lunch or running into your coworkers in the break room, you may no longer possess the same enthusiasm in your position. When this starts to happen, you may want to go in a new direction that stimulates your mind and creativity.
7. You feel exhausted when you get home. Home is generally your sanctuary; a place where the troubles of the day can be forgotten. So when you are unable to shake off the burdens of the day when you get in, you might need to find a new job before it starts to affect your home life and loved ones.
8. You’ve lost your sense of fulfillment. Your career often provides a sense of purpose or meaning. A new project or an adjustment in your role may increase your satisfaction level, but may not be enough to provide fulfillment. When you are no longer passionate in your position, it may be time to do some soul searching and see where the New Year takes you!
The opinions expressed here are solely my own as a psychiatrist and public health advocate. I receive no support from any pharmaceutical or device company.
My new book—The Modern Trophy Wife: How to Achieve Your Life Goals While Thriving at Home — is now available in electronic, paperback and hard cover versions on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Ibooks.
My website is http://www.ayogathingmd.com