Time to Choose a New Master?
In the job market, this story unfolds time and time again: An excellent opportunity presents itself, but your first reaction is to let it pass-you think to yourself 'now's not the time', or 'there'll be an even better opportunity down the line'.
In most cases, however, great opportunities don't pop up continuously. If your current position has already begun to limit your potential, why not have the courage to free yourself? If you find yourself in the following situations, it's time to consider a change:
1. There are fewer and fewer learning opportunities (or none whatsoever). Aside from the salary, work has the advantage of helping you improve your abilities. If a position becomes so familiar you can do it with your eyes closed, you should consider changing jobs. No matter how much longer you continue in the old post, you're not going to improve. As far as the market is concerned, that's career suicide-after a certain period of time you're certain to be eliminated. I'm sure most people are familiar with the story of the frog in a pot brought slowly to boil. It is a realistic problem.
2. Your creativity is slipping. You're unmotivated and listless at work. Your performance is mediocre and you can't seem to keep up with new employees.
3. You've lost interest in work. Interest is extremely important; if you find yourself dreading work, if the pressure is overbearing, if you're getting frequent headaches or showing signs of depression, it's time to get out. Do something you like-live happily and healthily.
4. You keep getting passed over for promotion. Maybe it's for objective reasons, maybe it's for subjective reasons, but if it's happening over and over you should consider leaving.
5. You're not getting the recognition you deserve. Everyone has a different outlook; for me, at least, a sense of accomplishment at work is extremely important.
6. Your company is downsizing. This is an external factor, but it can have big effects on the future of your career.
7. You work in a fringe department of the company. It's important for you to be noticed and for your work to be followed. If you're stuck in an out-of-the-way place, your future isn't going to be bright.
Remember, it's up to you to choose a suitable master. Switching jobs doesn't mean just a new position-it means an entirely new career future. For this reason, exercise extreme caution. Only after thinking it through carefully and taking stock of your entire situation should you make the final decision. As far as your future is concerned, that's the only responsible choice.
