Posted: 1/8/2014 | Career	Comments
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It’s the New Year, and the opportunity for new beginnings. Sometimes this finds us restless and wanting change. This can show up in many avenues in our lives, and one avenue is our work. You might feel dissatisfied and longing for something more fulfilling or a better work environment. Making change is always a challenge, and it’s important to know what you need to thrive. Before you move on, here are a few things to consider:

There is no perfect job. No matter where you work or what you do, every job has its challenges. There will always be aspects you enjoy and those you don’t. Some people will be great to work with, and others require greater effort and communication. When you understand that your job, just as in life, has its ups and downs, you can begin to work with what you can and let go of what you can’t. You’ll reduce your stress and enjoy more of what’s available to you right now, even if you do decide to leave.

Clarify what you want and need. Sounds easy, but we often have hidden beliefs that keep us from identifying what we want, as well as actually creating it. For example, if you’ve always wanted to be a pastry chef but you’re trained as a lawyer, you might repress your true desire because you don’t believe your passion is acceptable. Or, you might have a hidden belief that you don’t deserve to be happy in your work because your father hated his job. Whatever your perspective, dig in and acknowledge what you really want to do and have in your work. It might be more money, harmonious relationships, creativity or responsibility. It might be an entirely different occupation. Naturally, fear may arise but as you clarify your desire you can begin to consciously create it and ask for what you need.

It’s always an inside job. In many ways, as with most of life, your job is a mirror. It’s good to examine what’s going on within you that may keep you stuck in your position. In all of our relationships we can take a look at the triggers that upset us and begin healing what stands between us and our greatness. Your boss, for example, could remind you (however unconsciously) of a parent, and activate a childhood wound. Healthy, effective communication is an ongoing process, and there’s always an opportunity to improve your skills. You may also need to see your own lack of boundaries or those unconscious thoughts and feelings that keep your dissatisfaction in place. The more you look at yourself and heal what comes up for you, the better it feels to walk into the office in the morning– even if it’s in your own home.

Don’t burn your bridges. As with any break up, it’s so easy to make the other wrong to separate, but this doesn’t bring peace. So often we leave a job so focused on what we didn’t like, we forget the things that worked for us. Blaming your job, boss or company doesn’t empower you to move on, and it doesn’t help to carry resentment into a new situation. Focus upon the learning opportunities and what works in your current job. Keep lines of communication open as much as you can. You never know when your old contacts might lend a hand in the future, and you might be able to help others, too.

Get help when you need it. Sometimes, when you feel confused, stuck or helpless it’s time to reach out to a business coach or psychotherapist for support and guidance. A trusted expert can help you understand if your source of frustration or longing for something different lies within you or if it really is time to go. They can help you identify what you need, support you as you make changes and strategize so you can take the next, best step for you.

Change can be scary, but when you clarify your needs, reduce unrealistic expectations, examine the underlying internal issues that might be holding you back and focus on the positive aspects of your work, you can create the job of your dreams. You might decide to take those actions to land the perfect job, or you might find you’re already there.

Are you dissatisfied with your work? What changes will you make this year? Please leave a comment. It makes a difference for all of us!

For further information on accessing your wisdom, happiness, fulfillment, and peace you desire, click here to learn about Dr. Howard's Multiple Award Winning Book "Your Ultimate Life Plan: How to Deeply Transform Your Everyday Experience and Create Changes That Last."

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