#AskJUGS: 3 Ways to Survive the Wrong Job

If you are working in a thankless role with an endless workload, if you are regularly bored and listless in the office, or if you leave work frequently too exhausted to enjoy your free time, you’re probably in the wrong job.

The good news is that it doesn’t usually require a major career transition to find a position that’s a better fit, but it does usually require a job change.

Launching a job search while you’re in a role that isn’t a great fit can be challenging. It can be hard to tap into your strengths and feel prepared to communicate them to potential employers when you’re not using them (or you’re not aware of how you’re using them!).

Whether you’ve outgrown your current role or you just can’t make it work with your boss, here are three strategies for surviving the wrong job.

Use your time off wisely 

You know better than anyone what activities refuel you and leave you feeling energized. Try to squeeze one of your favorite activities in each week so you have something to look forward to. And if you have the paid time off, a long weekend never hurt anybody either! If you’re feeling like you need a total re-set for your energy and your priorities, check out the Work Wonders Digital Resource Guide.

Address the stress

When you are in the wrong job, your confidence can take a total hit and the stress from the office creeps into your out of office time. While time off, fun hobbies and exercise can often help people manage work stress, don’t be afraid seek the support of a mental health professional. They are full of resources for dealing with stress and you may even qualify for some free sessions through your workplace employee assistance plan.

Prepare an exit plan

While a demanding and stressful work situation may drain your capacity for a job search, don’t be afraid to get started with small steps. A couple of 20 minute sessions a week can give you enough time to start reflecting on what you want in your next role and create a strategic job search plan.

It’s not easy to be in the wrong job, but with a few strategies in place, you can manage the stress and identify opportunities that will be a way better fit!

Jenn Walker Wall writes a monthly career advice column called #AskJUGs for JustUsGalsBos.com and is the founder of Work Wonders Coaching + Consulting. You can follow her on Twitter: @JennWalkerWall. Ask your career questions here.