The frustration that comes with working a job you don’t enjoy can be tough to comprehend. That said however, it is not wise to just quit without making careful considerations. A lot needs to be put into perspective, since there are reasons you took it up in the first in place. The right mind-set and strategies are very important in terms of creating a way forward. Different factors such as dealing with a ‘difficult boss,’ unfavourable working conditions, low pay, or merely having chosen a career you don’t seem to enjoy may push you to loathe your job. In such a case, Christian Muhire a communications strategist says when quitting is not an option, an employee needs to find means of turning their present appalling experience into an opportunity. “Look at the bright side. This statement can sound cliché but it carries truth in it. A positive attitude can be of great importance especially in moments when you haven’t figured out how to deal with what’s bothering you,” he says. Muhire says what’s important is taking action, “do something about it and don’t just complain. Change that issue that’s making you dislike your job. What good does it make to hate what you do with all your guts and make no effort to change your situation?” Writer Patricia Thompson agrees, noting that as you’re planning your next move, it’s certainly not in your best interest to continue to feel overwhelmed with misery in your current job. After all, what if your next career move is a few years in the making - is it worth it to be unhappy for that whole time? To address this, it can often be helpful to reframe how you are looking at your work. One way to do this is to consider what there is in your professional life for which you can be grateful. Do you have a funny co-worker? Has the work helped you to develop new skills (even if it’s the emotional intelligence to deal with your ornery boss)? Does the job keep food on your table and a roof over your head? We often take these sorts of things for granted; however, acknowledging them can help you to better appreciate your work. Work your plan Fred Mutabazi a business consultant deems it rational to plan the direction you want your career to take. He says to spend very little time loathing about your dreadful job, and instead work on the future of your career. “If you don’t like what you see at work, work on getting yourself out of there. Create a vision for your career and work towards it; it’s not easy but it’s better than dealing with a job you don’t enjoy doing. After making a clear plan, work towards it and regardless of the challenges you face, make sure to remain focused otherwise you will remain in that ‘rabbit hole’.” Finally, consider how your work aligns with your values. For example, if you’re someone that enjoys helping people, think about how your job contributes to a better world for others, according to Thompson. “If you love learning, think about where there are opportunities to learn in what you are currently doing. Being more mindful of how your values can be expressed in your work can increase your level of satisfaction. And, it might even give you some ideas about projects to pitch to your boss.”
