You’re getting antsy in your job but you’re not 100% sure if you’re ready to leave. We get it. We all have doubts for big decisions like this. It can be scary to jump ship and search the open sea for something new, fresh, and exciting.
So we’ve put together a few scenarios that may help you determine “should I stay or should I go?”
Sign #1: The projects you’re tackling aren’t pushing you to grow.
You could do this job with your eyes closed. Ok, you probably need them open but it’s basically muscle memory at this point. You’re comfortable with the work you’re doing. You have a routine that’s practically flawless, and you are able to deliver results without as much effort.
Ask yourself: Are there interesting, new projects at your current company that you can take the initiative to lead? Can you ask your supervisor for added responsibility? Do you even want that responsibility? If not, start polishing those professional materials.
Sign #2: Your boss or coworkers are bringing you down.
Your boss and teammates drag you down – both in your work output and overall spirit. Your coworkers are constantly trying to undermine you or root for your failure.
Ask yourself: Is this affecting your work output? Is there a possibility this could stunt your upward mobility at the company? Is this environment impacting your happiness? If the answer is yes, it’s time to rev that job search engine.
Sign #3: You don’t feel appreciated.
You’re putting in every ounce of energy and smarts you’ve got to produce quality results for your company. Despite the effort, there is no recognition for your hard work – not even a thumbs up from across the room.
Ask yourself: Have you identified the type of recognition you are looking for (a raise, title change, or just affirmation from your boss saying “excellent work”)? Have you addressed your quality of work with your supervisor and nothing has changed? If you’re not getting the recognition you deserve, pack up that desk and find a place that values you.
Have you identified the type of recognition you are looking for?
Sign #4: You’re not happy.
We all have down days, but if you’re going into work every day for weeks – maybe months – dragging your feet, it’s probably time to leave. Life’s too short. You deserve to be in a job that makes you happy.
Ask yourself: Is it worth it to spend tens of thousands of hours at work miserable? If the pay or benefits weren’t so spectacular would you still be there? Life’s too short to be unhappy, so it’s time to move on.
Sarah Sax is the founder of Write For The Job.