My Job is Crap and I Need a Change

I hear iterations of this over and over again in my line of work. My compassion kicks in and I want to help. But I can’t help if you’re not first helping yourself.

You see, living a passionate, fulfilling life is navigated by you. YOU. And too many people think dramatic changes—career shift, industry change, more schooling, etc.—are the only paths forward.

Guess what? Leaps are great when you’ve meditated and found your soul’s purpose. For the rest of us, consider starting with progressions before leaping.

First, start with the time you currently have—and you have time. It may be in small pockets, but it's there. I’m a working, single, mountain home-owning (shoveling hell), pet parent and mom to a 5-year-old. Even I have pockets of time.

So, how do you use your time? Are you reading Buzzfeed? Or are you investing in those areas you personally care about?

Sit down for 10 minutes with a pen and paper and answer the question: How do I want to spend my time? I keep my list of answers on my fridge right by my French press. No joke. It’s important. And I need to remind myself so I don’t get caught in the momentum of daily to-dos.

When you use your slivers of time for things you’re passionate about, your weekly measure of success shifts. You feel more successful and fulfilled with your week. Why? Because you’re prioritizing what you care about in those moments that are solely yours.

Second, if you’re passionate about helping others or doing good in the world, start incorporating acts of service now. Make a point to be kind. Listen more. Help one person out at work without being asked. Buy a stranger coffee. Write a thank you letter. Bike to work. Volunteer.

Third, dig into how you define success—daily, weekly, and long-term. When you have a vague idea of what success should be, you’re always going to fall short. Get specific. Include intangibles like how you feel, too.

What other progressive shifts toward your inspired, successful life can you think of? Keep adjusting. Keep reflecting on the impact.

Once you know what you’re passionate about and start prioritizing those passions, you’ll find that you bring more energy to your work (whatever that work is).

Or, you’ll have much clearer direction on what needs to change with your work and why.