In 2021, roughly 50% of working Americans would like to make a career change. Many people are interested in switching jobs to make more money, work a more flexible schedule, or change industries altogether.

The pandemic has played a large role in people’s changing thoughts about work. If you’re thinking about making a career change, you’re not alone.

The trouble is, how do you tell if you’re just frustrated with a work situation or if it’s time to change jobs?

Luckily, there are a few warning signs to look out for. Read on to learn how to decide whether or not it’s time to find a new career.

You Dread Going to Your Job

It’s normal to feel a little anxious on Sunday nights before your work week starts. But, if you have a hard time dragging yourself out of bed each day, your job could be the problem.

Before you make any decisions, see if it’s a meeting or a project that has you worried or stressed. If the feeling continues for months, it might be time to build a new career.

Maybe you’re tired of your desk job and you want something with a different routine. Consider a career in flatbed trucking, manufacturing, or another service job.

You Don’t Feel Valued

Do you feel like your best work isn’t appreciated? Do you offer up ideas that go unnoticed?

If you’re not feeling valued at your workplace, see if you can have a conversation with your manager. Maybe their own workload is too heavy to give you the encouragement you’re looking for.

If you still don’t get the feedback you want, consider starting a job search.

Your Job Doesn’t Challenge You

While your job should get easier over time as you build your skills, you shouldn’t feel stagnant. Even if your job is repetitive, there’s often ways to improve or challenge yourself.

If you don’t feel challenged, ask for more work or see if you qualify for a promotion. Many companies would jump at the chance to have an employee who’s willing to work harder.

You’ve Stopped Setting Career Goals

When you first got your job, your interviewer probably asked you about a five year plan. If you set goals in that conversation, have you followed those goals?

If you’ve already achieved those goals, did you set new ones? If not, you may be having trouble imagining a future at your company. In that case, it might be time to find a new career.

It’s Affecting Your Personal Life

If your job is making you feel so miserable that friends and loved ones notice, it’s time to evaluate your job. Your frustrated feelings make it hard to appreciate your free time which also damages your work life balance.

People with the best careers have a true passion for their work. This makes them happier overall and helps them lead a more fulfilling personal life too.

Are You Ready for a Career Change?

A career change can be a scary decision. But, if you feel unsatisfied and disappointed with your job, it might be time to find a new challenge.

Whether you’re looking for more career advice or you want to learn what it’s like to work in a different industry, keep scrolling through our blog for more insight.