5 Signs It’s Time to Change Careers

According to a recent report, nearly 6 out of 10 (59%) middle-income American workers are considering changing their careers, and 44% already have a specific plan to make the change. 

And the US Bureau of Labor Statistics noted that the average person holds 12.4 jobs between 18 and 54. About 30% of the current workforce will change careers every 12 months. 

The Great Resignation neared its peak about one year ago when more than 4.5 million Americans quit positions for higher pay or discovered new careers or lifestyles.

In fact, about 27% of people change careers in search of a better work-life balance, making it the primary reason for a career change last year. About 26% of employees make career changes for a larger salary, while another 26% look to try something new. 

Whether someone likes their job or feels dissatisfied, moving on to something new might be beneficial. If you're contemplating changing jobs, there are essential things to consider.

You’re Not Excited About Going to Work

Many people, even at a job they’re passionate about, go through moments where work feels like work. But if you get the “Sunday-night fear” about going to work every week, it’s probably time to switch career paths. 

Your job should offer a level of connectedness and contentment. But it might be time to reevaluate your role if you’ve mentally checked out, underperforming, or if you’re apathetic and can’t muster the energy to fake enthusiasm. 

You’re Experiencing High-Stress Levels

Work should be challenging but not debilitating. If you’re chronically exhausted, losing sleep, suffering from headaches, or experiencing other physical symptoms related to job stresses, your body may be telling you that your career is not suitable for you. 

High-stresses at work can be expected, especially during a big project or preparing for a presentation, but it shouldn’t permeate your personal life. 

You Feel Invisible

Job duties become repetitive in any career. Every day can look and feel identical. But, if you consistently feel that your opinions and contributions go unacknowledged, or if you’re putting your best ideas and best efforts into your work and it's not being recognized, it may be time to find a career where you feel like you can make a real difference. 

if you begin to feel undervalued or invisible, you can express how you’re feeling in your role and ask if there is anything else you can do to improve. But if these conversations feel one-sided, changing careers could be the best move. 

Low Wages Make it Hard To Support Living

If your salary or wages do not cover your cost of living, you should consider another career choice. This concept is cut and dry for some people, while others struggle with loving their job  and accepting low pay.  

You can love your company, your co-workers, and your job itself, but also realize that you need to earn more money than you are earning now. You can still support your organization from a distance while working somewhere else and earning a decent paycheck.

You Daydream About a New Career

Many people spend their free time thinking about what they will do in their “next life” and relishing this thought. They may even go on job boards after hearing about an opportunity, or get jealous of those around them who love their jobs. 

If you regularly imagine having a different job or career, this could be a significant sign that you need a change.