Are you putting your life on hold?
The majority of us spend a large part of our lives working, whether it is for ourselves, or for someone else. Whatever the job it is that we do, we spend a good chunk of our day doing it. As a significant part of our lives and identity, it is important that we enjoy our work.
Unfortunately, statistics tell us that a third of Canadians (https://www.biv.com/article/2015/8/almost-60-canadians-unhappy-work-survey/) are not happy in their chosen careers. Some feel that they are stuck in a rut, or at least, in limbo. Life is just waiting to begin – not now, but at some unknown, distant time in the future.
Long term career dissatisfaction could lead to anxiety, depression, or both. It could impact important relationships, lead to reactionary and poor attitudes at work, and it has been known to lead people to self-prescribe quick-fix ways to feel better, such as drinking and gambling.
Here are a few reasons why some people struggle with their careers.
“I don’t know which job is right for me”
Do you feel that your job is not the right fit for your personality? Perhaps you’ve thought about a few other jobs you’d much rather be doing, but you just can’t decide which is the best one for you. Making the move to another job could be stressful and may require going back to school, which entails a significant investment in time, money and energy. For many people it would mean sacrificing precious family time. While you’re figuring out what to do, you’re increasingly unhappy as you spend a great deal of time doing something that you don’t enjoy.
“I dread going back to work”
Perhaps you’ve put your own personal fulfilment on the back burner for a long time while putting your family’s needs first. It is now time for you to get back to work and you’re having a hard time building up your confidence. Your anxiety is working overtime and the thought of the workplace fills you with dread. The very idea of meeting new coworkers and having to be part of a team brings back memories of dominant personalities, loud and fast talkers, and a sense of inadequacy and insecurity as you try to keep up. In the meantime, you’re sitting at home, wondering what to do with the rest of your life.
“I’m afraid to put myself out there”
Do you fear getting disappointed, rejected, or letting down your family and friends? All these fears may lead to procrastination and feeling that life is just passing you by. As you ponder, your fears continue to grow. A year goes by, then two years. Now you can’t recall when the idea first struck you. The idea that life could be better, that there is a better version of you waiting to live.
“My workplace sucks”
Sadly, unhealthy and toxic workplaces do exist. A culture of intimidation, gossip and politics can make up a regular day at work. If you’re caught up in such an environment, read this article “Bullying in the Workplace” where issues of bullying are addressed. Speak with a counsellor if you are a victim of bullying. Know that you can heal from the toxicity and pain you suffered.
If you’ve experienced or can relate to any of the above, career counselling may be helpful for you, and ultimately, your family and loved ones.
A career counsellor can help you to:
- Identify and articulate long term goals in specific and achievable terms
- Address areas of concern, e.g. fears, anxieties, feelings of inadequacy, lack of confidence, poor communication skills, etc.
- Identify areas of interests and focus on specific areas
- Identify strengths and weaknesses
- Identify your personality type and the career options available for your personality type
- Formulate a plan
- Set achievable and realistic goals in a reasonable timeframe
- Identify ways to be accountable to self
- Refine your resume
- Practice interview skills
And many more, based on your specific circumstances.
Don’t put your life on hold. Give us a call today for a free 30-minute consultation.
