Unsure if you need a new career? Here are some signs it might be time to move on

It crosses everyone’s mind at some point – am I really at my best here, or is there a better position for me? Maybe you love your current job, but you also feel like you’re in a rut and lacking real challenge. Or maybe your job is silently killing you, leaving you stressed and unable to enjoy life even outside of the office.

Whatever the reason, it’s difficult to tell what the right move is – there is always a chance that it’s only a temporary feeling. Leaving on a whim could have disastrous consequences, even if you think it’s the right move in the moment.

So what are some good ways to discern if it’s actually time? We’ve listed out a few tell-tale signs that you should start looking at new opportunities:

1. You aren’t being challenged
   Some people are perfectly fine with a standard day-in, day-out job and we’re not here to shame them. But if you’re reading this, there’s a good chance that you’re feeling a lack of excitement in your career that you’re craving for. If you’ve had the same position since day one, or your upward movement is slower than you would like, it may be time to consider upgrading your position.
   
   
2. You’re constantly stressed
   Stress is a common issue with any job, but everyone has their limits and there are simply some jobs that just require more effort than they ever should. If you can’t start a single day without dreading your job, there is likely an opportunity around the corner that won’t take such a toll on your well-being.
   
   There are also times where the position is great but the culture of your coworkers or management is so toxic that all of the benefits of the job fly out the door. It’s important to feel safe and valued wherever you work, so you should never settle for anything less.
   
   
3. You can’t muster up any motivation
   This is where it can be difficult to tell if you need a new job or if it’s just a phase. There are any factors in play when discussing motivation – maybe you need a change in your personal routine outside of work, or it could be health related.
   
   But if your life outside of work is fine and you’re staying as healthy as possible, the lack of motivation is likely stemming from your job. It doesn’t indicate that you’re a bad employee – most people will go through this at some point with any job. It is however a good indication that you need a change of pace with a new career.

Regardless, if you find yourself constantly thinking about the possibility of a new career, it’s likely an indicator that you’re ready to move on – just make sure it’s for the right reasons.

When you’re ready to move forward, RJ Byrd can help. With over 20 years of experience in placing candidates in their dream job across the greater Dallas area, you can count on us to work hard for you and make sure that you find a job you love.