As the saying goes “You work to live, you don’t live to work.” If you find yourself leaving the office each day feeling exhausted and anxious only to spend your off hours worrying about assignments and deadlines, it suggests that your job is too stressful. You might be able to weather the strain for now, but you’re clearly approaching a breaking point. If your job leaves no room for an essential work/life balance, take these next steps:
Restructure Your Job
You’re probably hesitant to go to your boss to ask for different or lesser responsibilities. But just consider the fact that if you’re always stressed out, you’re probably not turning in your best performance. If you believe that you could make a bigger impact to your employer by working in a different way, they will be eager to hear that. Instead of approaching your boss with a sob story and no plan for a resolution, come up with clear, concrete ideas for what your new job will look like, and frame it as an exciting opportunity for all involved.
Seek Out a Fresh Start
The problem may be your current job, or it could be your employer or the industry you work in. If a resolution seems impossible at the company your currently work for, it’s time to look elsewhere. Don’t just jump at the first opportunity, though. Figure out what it is about your current job that stresses you out – huge quotas, tight deadlines, supervisory responsibilities etc. – and imagine what kind of environment you could thrive in while still feeling challenged and engaged. Once you have a clear picture of what your ideal job looks like, start searching for it discreetly. Conduct your job search outside work using your personal email and phone number. Don’t let your boss or coworkers know about your intentions until you’re ready to submit your resignation.
Work with a Recruiter
A job search can be a stressful experience. Conducting one while also working a stressful job could prove to be overwhelming and leave you stuck in place. Take some of the pressure off your shoulders by partnering with a recruiter. They will search for opportunities that match your preferred working style while advancing your career goals. They will also help you connect face-to-face with new employers, eliminating one of the hardest parts of the job search. Not only will your job search be easier, it will be more effective too.
Don’t let your job leave you bitter and broken. Rely on The Squires Group to help you find something better.
