6 Signs You’re In The Wrong Career

It is not uncommon to sometimes feel like you’re in the wrong career.

This can happen to anyone, including those who’ve been in that career, or job for 10, 20, or even 5 years!

No one wants to be stuck doing a job they don’t enjoy for the rest of their lives.

Or have to spend every day regretting their decision and filling their thoughts with “if onlys”.

Sometimes it is so much easier to stomach unemployment than a miserable job.

You may even currently be in the wrong job and you have no idea. But not to worry, here are 6 signs that show you’re in the wrong career choice;

Signs You’re In The Wrong Career

1. You Despise Your Job

It’s normal to hate your job once in a while, everyone does at some point. I remember saying the words countless times at the slightest inconvenience.

To be honest, jobs can be a real pain, however, when you find yourself loathing your job all the time. Something is definitely wrong.

If your career causes you so strife, you can’t even come up with one good reason to stay, then chances are, you are probably in the wrong place.

2. Your Mental Health Is In Shambles

Once Monday’s around the corner and you feel like breaking down into tears or your head starts to ache, it’s clear as day that your job gives you no happiness.

If you also find yourself constantly experiencing burnout, and anxiety at work, then it is quite likely your job is the problem.

Sometimes the stress from your career can even showcase itself via physical symptoms.

So if you’re constantly falling ill, and struggling mentally because your job is draining you, it might be time to consider another career choice.

3. You’re Always Complaining

Frankly speaking, there’s no one who doesn’t complain about their job at least once a week, I know I do it. But once you notice you’re always complaining almost every single day, that’s where you should draw the line.

If all you are grateful for at your job is your paycheck, then you might just be in the wrong place.

4. You’re Underperforming

If you are in the wrong job your performance is bound to be less than stellar. This is because you lack the enthusiasm and inspiration needed to excel. So your job suffers badly and others around you may even start to notice it.

Of course, it’s no surprise that you’re underperforming. Because you are constantly distracted daydreaming about other jobs, places you’d rather be, and things you’d rather be doing.

You also spend time wishing you had done things differently and could go back.

5. You Feel Like You Don’t Belong

Feeling out of place or like an imposter at your job can also mean you shouldn’t be there.

You struggle to understand certain things including those you should know, you can’t relate with your colleagues, and you tune out during meetings and briefs. 

Because you feel like you don’t belong, you don’t try to impress your colleagues or employer by going over the top.

6. You’re Bored Out Of Your Mind

If you’re so bored with your job that you feel you’re losing your mind, that’s a big career red flag.

Boredom at work will prevent you from improving and upscaling. Because you have no passion, motivation, or interest in what you do. And staying in that career will only breed more boredom and eventually, frustration.

What Can You Do If You Are In The Wrong Career

1. Take A Lil Break

It may seem like the best thing to do is quit, but before you do that you have to ensure you’re making the right decision.

If you were searching for an item in a cluttered space, the first thing you’d do is arrange and empty out the space. You should apply the same to yourself when making decisions.

Empty your mind by taking a break from work, and clear your mind. Then you can decide the best decision for you and your career.

During this break, you’d be able to decide if you still desire a similar role but in another industry or a completely different career path.

2. Consider A Career Change

Change is constant and although it may be a bit scary sometimes it’s our best shot at living a good life.

If your job choice is affecting your health, happiness, and overall well-being, then that job has got to go.

Don’t feel like you’re throwing all you’ve worked for down the drain. Instead, look at it like a phase has run its course and now it’s time to move on to another.

Plus, you’ve gained so much experience and skill that’ll make you invaluable at your next job.

3. Seek advice

The only person who knows what’s best for you is you and maybe a few loved ones and in terms of career, a professional as well.

This is why before making a final decision, for clarity’s sake, involve a third party.

Whomever you ask for advice may be able to help you see things from a better perspective. And help you make a much better decision.

Leaving The Wrong Career

Choosing a new career is not a choice for the weak, so just by deciding to change, you’re strong enough to overcome any challenge you may face.

Hopefully, the signs listed in this article will help you decide if you’re in the right career. And our tips on what you can do if you aren’t can help you decide what’s best for you.

Our Free Career Center will help you make the best choice if you decide on leaving the wrong career.

Over To You

Do you feel like you’re in the wrong career and are contemplating leaving? Let us know in the comments section @netwerkmovement. And don’t forget to share with anyone struggling to make a career choice.