What to Do When You Merely Tolerate Your Job

How many of us truly enjoy our jobs and find our careers fulfilling in every way?

The truth hurts: Only 10 percent are lucky enough – or have planned carefully enough – to claim that distinction.

The next 40 percent like their jobs, but they’re very happy – ecstatic! — when Friday rolls around. Finally, they get to do what they really want to do with their lives.

The next 40 percent are the ones who say, “Oh, my gosh, is it only Wednesday? This is the longest week of my life! And I thought last week was the longest week of my life.”

The bottom 10 percent are the ones who say when that alarm goes off, “Please, please, please don’t make me go to work today!”

Life is too short to merely tolerate your job. Each day I do my best to help people find jobs and careers that they’re excited about – whatever their age or career path.

Yes, it’s an ongoing challenge, especially if you’re the one who’s looking for a better, more meaningful, and better-paying job. Is it stressful, risky and uncomfortable? Yes, yes and yes.

When I talk with clients who are unhappy with their jobs and careers, I feel it’s my duty to shake them out of their complacency and point them in a better direction – and to a different job. Because we know that once people are bored at their jobs, they don’t give it their best.

And in this economy, once you don’t give it your best, employers take notice. Guess what happens next. You’re out of work.

These days, you and your employer form an unwritten, but vital pact: No matter what your level – CEO or entry-level – most companies will keep you employed for only as long as you bring value to the company.

That means: Do you stay current on technology? Do you ask for more responsibility? Do you have a positive attitude? Have you pursued an advanced degree or certification? Are you being challenged? Are you learning new skills? Do you bring energy into the room?

As long as your current job offers you enough opportunity to grow as well as prosper, you’ll likely continue to be a very happy — and even more valuable — employee. If not, you might consider making a change.

Because as the percentages prove, life can be much too short if you don’t like your job.