Maybe your job isn’t perfect, but it’s not terrible either. People ask you if you like what you do for a living and if you like your job, and you respond with a “Yeah, I enjoy it!” but your heart might not be in it. It’s an okay job, but not something you love. Is it ok to feel this way?
These are totally normal feelings to have. In fact, according to the Pew Research Center, although 49% of those surveyed report being very satisfied with their jobs, 30% see the work they do as “just a job to get them by.”
But that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to start to like your job, or at the very least, feel more satisfied with it. Here are our top tips on changing your perspective.
- Figure Out What You Don’t Like
If you don’t hate your job, it can be harder to really zero in on what specific parts of your job you’re unsatisfied with. It could be where you sit in the office, an annoying co-worker, or a disorganized boss. It could also be you find certain job responsibilities less fulfilling than others. Sitting down and making a list of what you’re unhappy with is a great start to discovering how to turn things around.
- Figure Out What You DO Like
Now that you’ve made a list of the not-so-great stuff, it’s time to figure out the oh-so-great stuff. An easy commute, flexible schedule, great manager, fun co-workers; anything goes! You might even find that some of the pros outweigh the cons.
- Find Industry Friends
Whether it’s people at your own company or folks you meet through a professional organization, it’s important to have colleagues within your industry. Venting to people who understand is important. Sometimes you may feel dissatisfied with your job because it seems like everyone else loves their job, but talking with others in similar positions can show that we all have off days.
- Talk to Your Manager
If you have a good relationship with your manager, bring your concerns to them. Maybe you want more responsibilities or more flexibility in your schedule. No matter what it is, you’ll never know if your manager is willing to change things unless you ask.
Are you satisfied with your job? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments section below!
