Do you complain endlessly about your job?

In order to answer honestly, ask someone who is around you a lot. Some people complain and don’t even realize they are complaining.


You may be making some of these comments without realizing how much you complain:

“My clueless manager micro-manages.”

“My coworkers are useless. I get stuck doing all the work.”

“Even if I worked 24/7 for an entire year, I still wouldn’t be caught up with my workload.”

“My paycheck needs more zeroes!”


With the new year around the corner, maybe it’s time to do something about it.

If you’re still pushing back on the idea of making a change, then what’s your excuse?

Are you using one of these excuses to procrastinate?


Scared of Change

It’s overwhelming to think about all the changes a new job could bring – new commute, new manager, new corporate culture, new coworkers …

If this reason is keeping you in a job you hate, then stop wasting energy on being scared of change.

Realize that initiating a job search will either find a better opportunity OR validate that your current employment is not so bad.

If we always know what’s ahead, wouldn’t our journey be boring? Stop being scared of change and embrace it.


 Fear of Rejection

If a company decides not to hire you, it’s not rejection, it’s closure.

At least you know where you stand and can move on to the next opportunities.

The best way to deal with rejection is to have multiple opportunities at one time.

Many people stop or slow down their job search when they have one interview scheduled.

Don’t make that mistake. Sustain your momentum until you accept an offer.


Lack of Time

The less time you dedicate to searching for a new job, the longer it will take to find one.

There is no shortcut – looking for a new job is a full-time job.

Commit at least four weeks to your job search. If you are currently unemployed, dedicate eight hours per day.

If you are employed, then dedicate at least eight hours per week (but realize it’ll take you longer to find a new job).

Change other commitments to find time for your job search. If finding a new job is important to you, you’ll find a way.

Set goals with defined timelines, giving yourself a break every four weeks, especially if you are employed.


Unfamiliar With Job Search Process

While technology has changed the job search process, it’s still about your connections.

Keep the technology part simple and set up automated searches on different websites.

But more importantly, start reaching out to your connections. Make sure you can clearly articulate what you are looking for – avoid telling people you’ll take anything.


 Don’t Know What You Want

Looking for a new job can be a daunting experience, especially when you don’t know what you want to do.

Start by listing how you want your new job to be different from your current employment.

Next, read job postings and business journals to figure out what jobs resonate with you.

You may not know EXACTLY what you are looking for, but you can develop a strong sense of the industry, responsibilities, and benefits you want.


If your job frustrates you, stop complaining and take control.

Stop making excuses and start looking for a new opportunity.

And remember, stay PEF (positive, enthusiastic, and focused)!

(Update to original post from December 19, 2018)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®, is a Managing Director at Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include developing  comprehensive financial plans, divorce financial reviews, and retirement plans. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA™, RICP®, CRPC®, is the Founder of Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include developing spending plans, comprehensive financial plans, divorce financial reviews, and retirement plans. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”