4 Survival Hacks for Thriving in a Job You Hate
If you’re reading this, there’s a decent chance you aren’t happy in your current job. A recent study found that more than 28% of Americans are looking for new jobs right now – the highest rate in a decade. So, if you’re feeling this way, first know that you’re not alone. Second, I’ve seen a lot of tips for navigating the job search process, but I haven’t seen a lot of content on how to navigate and survive your current job when it sucks. The process of seeking and landing a new opportunity takes time, so here are my tips on how to make your current job feel better in the meantime.
Tip #1: Network within the company
Consider people who you’ve crossed paths with and who you’ve wanted to get to know better. Have you collaborated in the past with folks you’ve loved working with? Set up an informal chat and pick their brain. This could lead to a mentorship opportunity or potentially a lateral move. Keep in mind that organizational culture often varies greatly from team to team. There could be an opportunity on another team where the culture is better aligned with your values. Investigate the org chart and be proactive about making strategic new connections. Your skills aren’t just valuable within your current team – another team may be lacking the superpowers you bring to the table. We have to fire up these conversations to see what’s possible. I’ve done this in the past and ended up creating an opportunity for myself.
Even at jobs I’ve disliked, there were always great people who inspired me and kept me going. Finding those people, commiserating about the difficulties of the workplace, and forming an alliance can make your work life much more tolerable.
Tip #2: Lean into what you enjoy about the work
Make a list of what you like about your job – perhaps it’s the flexibility, certain projects that align with your passions, particular clients, collaborating with another team who inspires you, etc. Know what it is that you enjoy and lean into it. If certain projects feed your passion or certain clients motivate you, communicate that to your boss. Express why you enjoy that work, the value it brings you, and how it aligns with your skills and goals. Make your manager aware of what motivates you. When you chat with them, make it clear how the work you enjoy directly serves your goals and/or company goals. This is a strong business case for you to continue that work.
On the flip side, you can also make a list of what you dislike about the job. This can be related to the work tasks, your boss, the schedule, the work environment, etc. Sometimes it’s cathartic to physically list it all out and name it, plus this will come in handy as you navigate finding your next opportunity. You’ll know exactly what to avoid.
Tip #3: Proactively protect your mental health
If you haven’t yet, now is the time to put boundaries in place. When we are in a job we hate, it can snowball and start negatively impacting other areas of our lives. To prevent this, set boundaries around your free time. Spend that time doing things that bring you joy and refill your tank. If you’re experiencing burnout, express that to your manager. Be direct as direct as you feel comfortable being, and say something like, “I’m experiencing burnout and need to put boundaries in place to protect my mental health. This is essential for me to do so I can continue delivering great work.” Inquire about the mental health benefits that your workplace offers. Take mental health days off to recharge and name it as such (this sends an important message to your boss). You can’t pour from an empty cup.
It’s also helpful to identify specifically what you need to be set up for success and communicate that to your leader. If you can’t take on any more projects because you’re at max capacity, make that clear. If you need support getting your current work done, ask for help. If you aren’t getting what you need from other teams and it’s frustrating, share that. Communicate your needs and your struggles. You are not in this alone. Part of their job is helping you succeed.
Tip #4: Take action steps toward securing your next opportunity
A toxic workplace or a toxic boss is out of our realm of control. Letting go of what we can’t control and lasering in on what we can control is empowering. If you’re feeling stagnant, start taking action. This can look like small steps that add up in a big way over time. Start by listing what you’re looking for in your next role and company. Dream big, don’t deny yourself anything. Also, make a list of companies you’d love to work for and note what draws you to them.
Next, refresh your resume and put a spotlight on your superpowers. This step can feel daunting, but with my newly updated Resume Guide, it’s never been easier. Make a job search plan, and decide what day and time of the week you want to dedicate to the search (I recommend one day per week to avoid application burnout).
Taking these action steps can give you a feeling of forward momentum. It brings a much-needed big-picture perspective to your current tough work situation. Remember, you are in charge, and it’s only a matter of time before you move confidently forward onto your next journey. You got this!
