If the job you once loved is now a “like” at most, it may be time to consider looking elsewhere for employment. This is not to suggest you pack up your desk every time you have a bad day with the boss. But if you’re getting that gut feeling of discontent more days than not, it’s probably best to begin exploring new possibilities of a better situation.
Here are some great points I saw (and then adapted) from a popular job-hunting site for you to consider if now is the time to begin your job search:
- You’re passed over for a promotion
It always feels personal when this happens even if there’s a reasonable answer for it. Do you need more training? Did the other candidate have the expertise that you could get with a bit more time and determination? If the playing field is even and this happens time and again, it may be time to move on. - You don’t get along with your boss
If you’re having bad vibes with your supervisor on a consistent basis, then chances are high that this will not get better any time soon. It might be best to jump first before you get pushed out.
- You’re depressed about work when you aren’t there
Do you spend every weekend dreading the next day you go back in to work? If so, you’re most likely in need of a new employment scene. Feeling this miserable about your current workplace isn’t worth bringing your mental health to the lowest level possible every week. - People have stopped talking to you
Do you still feel part of your team or are they consistently shutting you out of decisions you used to be part of? If you get the feeling that your opinion no longer counts, you might start looking for a new place where you are valued. - You’re not feeling challenged
Jobs can be fun—until they’re not. If you no longer feel inspired or think your talent has outgrown your current work situation, it’s probably time to move on. - Your stress has become unmanageable
Sometimes there are life circumstances that make the decision for us when it comes to our regular jobs. If things are going on with your personal health or that of a close family member, this may be the best time to step out of your current workplace to best manage your life.
Once you take a careful look at your current job satisfaction, you’ll have a better feel for knowing if it’s time to move on to a new place of employment. Take each point above into consideration, pray for God’s guidance, and then act on how the Lord leads you into your future.