Use Labour Day to reflect on your current job

Hooray for holidays! With the Labour Day weekend just around the corner, you’ll finally have the opportunity to recharge and rejuvenate. Take this opportunity to evaluate your professional situation and ask yourself some tough questions.

Read on to find out what to do if you find yourself agreeing with any of the following statements:

1. You don’t talk about your job

Even the most introverted people will discuss their job in extensive detail if they are proud of it. Unless you’re working as a secret agent, there’s no reason for you to shy away from discussing your job. If you find yourself recoiling in disgust or blatantly lying when asked about your occupation, it’s a sign you’re not proud of what you do. Not all jobs might be equally exciting, and if you are ashamed of having to disclose what you do for a living, this might be a sign you need a career overhaul, and quickly!

2. You’re not getting the most out of your job

Working on projects which are not intellectually stimulating are a waste of your time and energy. Your productivity will suffer, and so will your year-end performance review. If your skills are not being utilized to the maximum and you feel like you have learnt nothing, perhaps your current job is not right for you. Today’s disruptive job scenario demands that one stays up-to-date with the latest skills and technologies, and if you find yourself stagnating in terms of relevant skills and knowledge, it’s time to take matters into your own hands by signing up for training programs and certification courses.

3. Work-life balance is non-existent

When you find yourself spending more time poring over paperwork and churning out reports than with your loved ones, it might be time to move to a company with less draconian working hours. Working overtime now and then to fulfil urgent deadlines is fine, but if you stay back in the office until the wee hours of the morning on a daily basis, consider having a chat with your superiors. Try not to make a habit of staying back late, or you will be left feeling mentally and emotionally drained.

4. The company is in dire straits

Maybe your company just experienced a merger, is being sued or has begun downsizing due to dwindling economic conditions. It is not advisable to remain on a sinking ship, so unless you have received confirmation of a transfer to another department or a new job in the parent company, it’s safe to say your career may be at jeopardy. Don’t waste time in hunting for better opportunities if the company’s future is uncertain.

5. Your current job does not complement your chosen career path

Perhaps you took up your current job out of some compulsion or necessity-augment your resume, earn some money to finance your higher education or to provide for your family. Either way, it’s not your dream job and does not bring you closer to your overall goals. Talk to your superiors to figure out how your job scope can be tailored to better suit your professional journey.