Considering a career change? We spend about one-third of our lifetime working, which is equivalent to 90,000 hours. And so, most career experts would agree that there’s nothing worse than wasting this much time in a career that doesn’t fulfil you.
If you’ve been having doubts about whether to change or stay in your career, this article will clear that up for you.
We’re going to explore six signs that are telling you it’s time for a new career path.
1. The ‘Good Money’ Is No Longer Enough
Remember when you first started your job? The salary and benefits probably had you jumping for joy. But now, even though the money’s still good, something feels off. You wake up dreading another day at the office. That paycheck doesn’t seem to make up for the lack of fulfillment anymore. If this sounds familiar, it might be time to reassess your priorities and consider a career change.
2. You Feel Apathetic
Once upon a time, you tackled projects with real enthusiasm. Now? You’re just going through the motions. That company mission that used to fire you up does not evoke motivation anymore. You catch yourself underperforming, and your mind wanders to anything but work.
When apathy becomes your default setting at work, it’s a pretty clear sign that something has to change.
3. You Are Constantly Burned Out
We all get tired sometimes, but this is different. You’re beyond tired—you’re completely drained. No matter how much you rest or try to recharge on weekends, that bone-deep fatigue just won’t budge. If you find yourself consistently burned out, it might be time to consider a career change for your well-being.
4. Fantasies Have Taken Over
Not a day passes without wondering and imagining what your life would look like in a new career. You can picture yourself in that career, and not only that, you are flourishing there. You see yourself happy, fulfilled, and tackling each day with enthusiasm. If these fantasies about a different career are starting to feel more real than your actual job, it might be time to seriously consider turning them into your new reality.
5. You Lack Opportunities to Grow
Maybe you’ve climbed as high as you can in your current company but still feel unfulfilled. Or perhaps your entire field doesn’t offer the kind of growth you’re craving. You want to make a real impact, but when you look at your experience and skills, this career just isn’t cutting it anymore.
6. Your Values and Your Job Just Don’t Match U
If you find yourself increasingly at odds with your company’s culture or industry practices, it might be a sign that you’ve outgrown your current career. Maybe you’ve developed a passion for sustainability, but you work in an industry known for its insensitivity to sustainability. Or perhaps you value work-life balance, but your job demands 60-hour weeks. When your values and your career are no longer in sync, it’s worth considering a change.
Before You Hand in Your Resignation
While these signs can point toward the need for a career change, it’s important to dig a little deeper before making such a big decision. Ask yourself:
- Is it just your current company or team that’s the problem? Would switching to a different organization in the same field reignite your passion?
- Have you checked in on your mental health lately? Sometimes, conditions like depression or anxiety can masquerade as job dissatisfaction.
- Are there any personal issues affecting your work life? Family problems, relationship stress, or unresolved trauma can sometimes spill over into your professional life.
Making a career change is a big decision, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. If you’ve nodded along to at least three of these signs, it might be time to start exploring new possibilities.
It’s never too late to find a career that truly fulfils you because 90,000 hours are too many to spend counting down to Friday every week.
