For some people, it’s obvious when the time has come to leave a job. For others, it may not be so crystal clear. Boredom at work often falls into the latter category.
You spend too much time at your job to be bored. Constant boredom is a good indication that your future would be brighter somewhere else. All good things must come to an end – and that includes jobs. When you reach these points in your career, then it is better that they happen on your terms. You can move on to something new, as the next natural progression.
What Job Boredom Looks Like
If you’re not learning and growing at work, then you may be better off somewhere else. You are at your best – your most engaged and productive and your happiest – when you are challenged and around new ideas and opportunities.
If your current position is no longer a good fit, certain signs will apply. These include:
- Loss of passion: You no longer wake up in the morning with a feeling of excitement about going to work. Realistically, not every day will be exciting, but if you no longer love your job, you will never tap your true potential. Every day will seem more of a grind.
- Stress that negatively impacts your health: Boredom can lead to stress, which can take a toll on you, both physically and mentally. If this happens, then it’s time to get out.
- Slumping performance: If your boredom is resulting in lower productivity, even though you are more than capable of performing your job tasks, then you probably want to start looking for something new.
Or, you may simply have outgrown your job. There is no further opportunity for advancement. You seem to perform the same tasks day in and day out with no chance for further growth, even though you crave more.
What to Do About It
Once you realize it may be time to leave your job, begin by setting goals and defining what you are looking for in terms of responsibility, culture, compensation and benefits.
- Consider your options. Can you quit and concentrate solely on looking for a new position, or do you need to search while still at your current job? Define what your “better” or “ideal” job would look like. For instance, ask yourself whether you want to stay in your current field or explore a change.
- Create a time line. Set deadlines for finding another position and making your exit.
- Have a game plan. Come up with two lists. The first should be focused on how you will go about leaving your job; for example, giving notice, who you need to tell and when, and whether or not you want to be accessible after you’re gone for lingering questions. The second should zero in on what you need to do to find your next job, including the possibility of working with a specialized, professional recruiter.
As you develop and achieve your ongoing career goals, get to know PrideStaff Modesto – and learn how our recruiters can help you find the right job for you. Don’t be bored … be fulfilled, happy, and the best employee and person you can be. Contact us today to learn more.
