Signs you're in the wrong job

At some point in their lives, most people will find themselves wondering if it’s time to move on from their current job. Whether you’re in a rut or feeling like you’re not using your full potential, it can be tough to tell when the right time is to make a change. No matter what stage you’re at in your career, there are signs that can help you decide whether or not it's time for a change. Here are some signs to look out for:

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You're always stressed

Stress is probably the number one reason why people might realize that they’re in the wrong job. Nobody likes to feel anxious and overworked, and if things get too difficult it can be bad for your health. If you’re feeling some or all of the following, it’s time to try and reduce stress at work, or failing that, move on.

• Worries about job security
• Mood swings
• Feeling withdrawn
• Loss of confidence and motivation
• Heightened emotional reactions, being quicker to temper
• Bad sleep and dread of the working day

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You're not motivated

If you feel like you're not being challenged in your current role, it may be time to start looking for a new job. Here are some signs that you're not challenged in your current position:

• You're no longer learning new things
• You're bored with your daily tasks
• You feel like you could do your job with one hand tied behind your back
• You don't feel like your skills are being utilized to their fullest potential
• You find yourself daydreaming about other jobs or career paths

If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to start considering a change. A job that challenges you and makes you use your skills is essential to keeping your motivation high and preventing burnout. If you're not being challenged, take the initiative to look for a new role that will better suit your needs.

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You don't care about the company's mission

If you find yourself not caring about the company's mission, it may be a sign that you're in the wrong job. It's important to feel passionate about the company you work for and its mission to feel successful and fulfilled in your career. If you're not feeling that passion, it may be time to consider a new position.

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You're not using your strengths

Your strengths are what make you who you are, so don't sell yourself short by working in a job that doesn't utilize them. When you're in the wrong job, it can be easy to fall into a pattern of just going through the motions. But if you find yourself constantly feeling bored or unchallenged, it's a sign that you're not in the right role. Instead of settling for a job that doesn't make use of your strengths, look for one that will allow you to put them to good use and develop them further.

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You hate your commute

If you dread your commute every day, it may be a sign that you're in the wrong job. A long commute can add a lot of stress to your life, and it can be tough to find the motivation to stick with a job that you don't enjoy. If you find yourself feeling resentful of your commute, it's worth considering a career change. Long commutes take up a lot of time and can be expensive as well. This will eventually take its toll, so if you do decide to move on, the proximity of your workplace is an important factor.

You don’t get on with your team

Interpersonal problems in the workplace can have a serious impact on your output and mood. We’ve all worked with people that we don’t necessarily like, but as professionals, you move on from it and get the job done. But, sometimes that just doesn’t happen and these issues are too difficult to ignore. If you’re having problems with management or someone on your team, and it can’t be resolved, you may have no choice but to leave the company to have a better working environment.

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You're not being paid what you're worth

If you're not being paid what you're worth, it's time to move on. You deserve to be compensated for your hard work, and if you're not, it's time to find a new job. Here are some signs that you're not being paid what you're worth:

• You're not being given raises or promotions
• Your workload is excessive compared to others in the company
• You're constantly passed over for important assignments
• You’re aware of the market for your position and your salary is under the average

Don’t be afraid to move on

Changing job is always difficult and it may be tempting to bite your lip and carry on in your current workplace, even if you know it’s not the right place. However hard it is to go through the entire process of finding something else, it will always be best in the long run to find something that you can enjoy, in an environment that aligns with your personal and professional needs. If any of the above is true for you, get out there and start your journey to a better working life.