Have you ever had this conversation in your head, or with a friend or colleague? It goes like that:

“I hate my job. I think it’s time for me to move on”

“Why? You got such a great job in such a nice place”

“Well, it was really great for a long time, but actually it’s not that great anymore”

“Why are you complaining? They love you over there”

“Of course they love me. I do a lot of work for everyone”

“But they really appreciate that. Besides, if you don’t do it, nobody else will. Maybe they’ll give you a pay rise by the end of the year”

“But the thing is, I’m not learning anything anymore. My career will never progress this way. The job is monotonous and sometimes chaotic. All I do is fire fighting”

“Do you think it’s going to be better in a different place? It’s all the same everywhere”

“If you never try you’ll never know”

“But you cannot leave. It’s a family business and you are part of the family. The boss is relying on you”

“Well, I got my own family and I need to make sure I’m happy and energised for them. When you’re too emotionally connected, it means that They got too much of a hold on You. It’s time to set yourself free”

“I can’t believe you’re thinking about giving up the short commute, so close to home… Don’t you remember how hard it was to spend hours on the bus in your previous job? Long commute has its toll on your body and soul”

“It does, but I’m not sure I can go on like that anymore. I have to stop lying to myself. It is time to move on”

Well, easier said than done…

There are so many reasons not to go and stay in your comfort zone. Fear of change, lack of courage to start all over again.  However, as Steve Jobs said:

I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself: “If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?” And whenever the answer has been “No” for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something.

How many days in a row has it been for me? Probably too many…  Anybody else feeling like they’re in the same boat? I suspect the answer is Yes. Definitely.

According to experts at Healthy Lifestyle and Adult Health, some symptoms are:

• Dragging yourself to work and having trouble getting started
• Lacking the energy to be consistently productive
• Find it hard to concentrate
• Have no satisfaction from your achievements

Job burnout can result from various factors, such as:

• Lack of control
• Unclear job expectations
• Dysfunctional workplace dynamics
• Extremes of activity
• Lack of social support
• Work-life imbalance

How can you handle it? you got a few options:

• Seek support from co-workers, friends or loved ones
• Try a relaxing activity
• Get some exercise. Regular physical activity can help you to better deal with stress
• Rest! Get some sleep. Sleep restores well-being and helps protect your health
• Evaluate your options. Discuss specific concerns with your supervisor
• Update your resume and LinkedIn profile
• Go with your heart and Quit

The main point is if you cannot find an appropriate solution at work, start looking for another job. If you cannot take it anymore, take a break. If you say to yourself “I need to move on” but you don’t take action, nothing is going to change. Sounds like you’re stuck in your comfort zone, but is it that comfort? You will keep being dissatisfied and unhappy day in and day out until you (and only you) will be proactive and make the change. Time for some encouraging slogans?

Have No fear.

Never look back.

Just do it.

You Only Live Once.

Good luck!