5 Signs You’re in the Wrong Job

Is the right job suddenly feeling like the wrong job? You might have loved your job at the beginning when everything was new and the opportunities seemed endless. Or, maybe you’ve known something was off from the start.

Either way, have you started to feel more than a little unsettled? If you’ve been battling with nagging doubts that you may not be in the right job or even on the correct career path, you’re not alone.

One study shows that 9 out of 10 people between the age of 21 and 65 feel like they were rushed into making a decision about their career, and now they aren’t so sure about it.

A majority of them claimed they just picked out their higher education track at random, pressured to make a decision before time ran out. Others blame their parents for persuading them to follow in their footsteps, taking on a job that they don’t find remotely interesting. Then, there were some people who simply didn't think their current job fits them.

Whatever the reason behind that voice in the back of your mind, you deserve to listen to it. If your job isn’t serving you anymore, it’s time to move on. Today, we’re sharing five signs that you’re in the wrong job, and how to course-correct as soon as possible.

1. You’re Not Challenged Anymore

Do all of your days tend to look the same? Like the whiz kid at the back of the class, you’ve grown accustomed to the workload and now you find it increasingly mundane.

While you don’t want to stay in a position that constantly leaves you feeling overwhelmed and stretched to the max, you should feel a healthy amount of challenge. This is the spark that will keep you striving for more and hungry to learn as much as possible. The wrong job is one that doesn’t lead to growth, both personally and professionally.

It’s easy to become too comfortable. At first, you may welcome the reprieve but before long, you’ll find that you’re just coasting. Staying stagnant doesn’t do a thing for our personal or professional development over the long term, no matter how good it may feel.

The most fulfilling careers keep you on your toes and encourage you to be the best version of yourself. Immersed in boredom and monotony, you’re more likely to dive into distractions, which can negatively affect your work performance and set you back from where you want to be.

2. You Don’t Feel Valued or Appreciated by Your Boss or Coworkers

Studies show that 46% of American workers have left a job because they felt unappreciated by upper management. At the same time, 65% said they would be willing to work harder if they knew their managers would recognize the effort.

Whether it’s your boss or a colleague that consistently dismisses you, the reality is that the sting can hurt every time. No matter what kind of job you hold, you want to know that your work is meaningful and appreciated.

A workplace that doesn’t acknowledge or appreciate you is a toxic one. A toxic environment means you’re definitely in the wrong job. Yet, it can be hard to see this when you’re in the throes of it. It’s easy to make excuses for others, assuming they’re just too busy or consumed with their own work to notice yours.

Spending too much time in this environment can wreak havoc on your mental health, negatively affecting your confidence, courage, and drive. On the other hand, a supportive workplace can have the exact opposite effect. Researchers have found that when employees feel heard, valued, and respected, they tend to demonstrate better morale, improved performance, and they stay longer in their roles!

3. You’re Not Learning Anything New or Growing Professionally

Think you know everything there is to learn about your industry? If so, then it’s time to actually rethink your position.

The truth is that industries are always changing and transforming. Thanks to the Digital Age, they’re also innovating. Best practices that were the norm just a few years ago are quickly giving way to new developments in technology, automation, and industrialization.

If you think you’ve reached the pinnacle of knowledge, the more likely scenario is that your boss isn’t investing in the training you need to grow. Of course, there are many ways you can stay up-to-date on your own, such as reading industry publications and listening to podcasts, but nothing takes the place of actual, hands-on learning.

From online courses to in-person conferences, your employer should be actively looking for ways to help you hone your craft and grow professionally. You might not have reached the summit just yet, but you can’t climb up on your own.

4. You Don’t Feel Fulfilled

Find a job you love, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life. But the wrong job can make work feel like drudgery. How many of us have heard that sentiment? While there’s definitely a degree of truth to it, this mantra can leave us feeling discontent if we don’t feel massive amounts of joy each time we walk into the office.

The more appropriate saying would be: Find a job that brings you fulfillment, and you’ll reap the benefits all of your life.

Fulfillment isn’t the same as happiness or love. You don’t have to adore your job every second, but you should feel gratified and accomplished at the end of the day. If you’re starting to ask questions like, What am I really doing here?” or Does my job matter at all?” then it’s time to re-evaluate where you are and if you really want to stay there.

5. You Dread Going to Work

Most of us don’t spring up at the first ring of our alarm clocks. However, you also shouldn’t be filled with an immediate sense of dread as soon as it’s time to head to work.

It’s one thing to worry over a big meeting or an important presentation. It’s something different to feel that same sense of apprehension every time you pull into the parking lot. A persistent feeling of anxiety can interfere with your daily life and impact your mental health.

From an unpleasant boss to a combative coworker, there are many different reasons why you might feel apprehensive about heading to the office. All of them are valid, so listen to your gut.

Do These Signs Sound Familiar?

If you’re in the wrong job, you might not know it right away. The signs may start out subtle at first, and then become stronger and more pronounced the longer you stay.

If you’re not working in a career you love, or a company that recognizes and rewards your talents, it’s time to look elsewhere. We know it can be challenging to make that transition, especially if you’ve been in the same position for a while.

At Uvaro, we offer courses, workshops, webinars, and other resources to help you sharpen your skills, grow your network, and land a job you love. Check out our Career Success Catalog to discover the full scope of what we offer and what makes our approach so effective. Ready to shift professional gears? Visit our Job Board to check current openings and see what’s out there!