So You Hate Your Job? Now What?

Your current position may not have turned out to be what you imagined it would. Maybe a fast paced work environment isn't a great fit for you. Or maybe your awful job has revealed to you that you're in the wrong industry for what is you're trying to achieve long term...or maybe you just very plainly, hate your job.

It's okay to not be completely happy with where your at in life or at work. Millennial women have so much pressure pressed upon them to succeed and to do it early on in life. Like, so what you haven't created and sold an app that has made you a 23-year-old millionaire. It's your responsibility to design a life of fulfillment and happiness (and xoNecole's job to help you along the way), so if you think your job sucks you have choices.

Here's what to do:

1. Self assess. There are days when I loathe my job but I stop to ask myself, “Is this just a bad day or is working in publishing really not for you?” Is it the organization, leadership, or is that kind of job simply not what you want to do? Make a list of pros and cons of your current job and decide what things on that list you'll look for in your next job. Doing this will not only help you clarify what exactly you dislike about your current position, but it will also help you identify what you need from your current or next job in order to feel satisfied.

2. Have a chat with your boss. My mom taught me this one. She is an executive level woman at a Fortune 500 company and she says keeping the line of communication open with your boss will always work in your favor. She says that when she’s clear on what does or does not work for her team, she can delegate tasks to them accordingly. If you're not happy with the tasks, projects or position you have then you should communicate that. Your boss may be able to shift some things around so that you are satisfied with your workload, schedule or pay.

3. Reach out to those who already do what you want to do. I go on LinkedIn and look for people who do what I’d like to do. I read their job descriptions to identify the kind of skills that are valuable in that industry. I also reach out to them and ask for feedback on my résumé or for advice. Twitter is a great place to network. I’ve introduced myself casually to those in my industry on Twitter and some of them are now my mentors. Find people who have your dream job or work at a company you really love. Find out what steps they took to get there, if the company is hiring, and see if they can connect you to your desired department.

4. Pack a parachute. I have multiple streams of income. Yes, I intern at a major publication but I also freelance write, have my own blog, and oversee my own organization. Do like your mom said and “don’t put all your eggs in one basket, girl!” Have other avenues of gaining experience and working in your industry. Before you jump ship, make sure you've prepared for the leap. Set a specific date that you want to have found new employment elsewhere. Save up money for the transition and start applying to new positions.

Does your job suck? How are you coping or planning to moving on?

Share your experience!