Finding a rewarding career can be a lengthy and gradual process. Few people begin the workforce with a clear idea of what they want to do. In fact, by the age of 50, the average person has worked at 12 different jobs in search of the "perfect fit." For many, this means completely changing occupations. In 2016, over 6.2 million workers left their existing jobs to work in entirely other fields.

Quick question, How do you feel about work the next day on Sunday evening? Are you unconcerned, or does the prospect of sitting in that office fill you with panic or dread? When was the last time you felt appreciated for what you brought to the table? Do you find yourself moaning about work concerns to coworkers or colleagues frequently? Well, if you think it isn't enough reason, here are other signs you should consider, and be sure it's time for the next phase.

Signs Its Time For A Career Change

While it's true that some weeks on the job are easier than others, you may be questioning if what you are doing is correct or if it is time to find something else. Of course, changing careers comes with its own pros and cons. So, how do you tell when you need some downtime and when it's time to start genuinely exploring new opportunities?

1. You are envious of other people's achievements:

Some parts of our working lives are more enjoyable than others. But, when you see someone making a living doing something they enjoy, do you think to yourself, 'Why should they have that when I don't?' It could indicate that you're looking for something more fulfilling.

2. You're never tested:

Suppose you've been with a company for a long time. In that case, you may find yourself repeating the same responsibilities over and over. You may be seen to have a certain skill set yet not be allowed to expand on it. It's nice to be recognized for your abilities. Still, if you're being pigeonholed or forced into a rut, it can hinder your capacity to advance. It could also get boring, so either scale up, or find something else.

3. You dont feel valued:

When you do not believe your contributions are valued, your work can become less meaningful. These two concerns are significant indicators that you need to change your current circumstances. Being valued is one of the essential components of healthy partnerships. If you do not believe your efforts at work are important, recognized, or respected, you should consider leaving.

4. You're numb and complacent:

With each passing day, you feel more and more distant from the reasons you entered the field in the first place. Mentally, you've checked out; you're underperforming, deadlines are sliding, and you don't have the energy to pretend to be enthusiastic about the company's objective any longer. But this isn't typical of you. What exactly is going on? The truth is that even if you love your career, there will be times when it feels like work. However, suppose you can't recall the last time you felt motivated by a new idea or invigorated by your next project. In that case, it's time to rethink your role.

5. Look At Your ROI:

When we begin a new job or profession, we are placed on a curve representing our contribution over time. It should continue to rise. Every work and career has a time where that contribution begins to decline. It could be a loss of enthusiasm, interest, or engagement. Whether it happens in year one or year twenty, it is time to transition if the trend continues to be downhill.

6. You fantasize about starting a new job:

You spend your lunch breaks fantasizing about what you'd do in "your future life" and fantasizing about how you'd give your two-week notice. You start searching job boards instead of work emails. You begin to feel envious of your friends' occupations, wondering how they secured such "great" jobs. You wince when people ask what you do because you wish it were something else. You've considered leaving, and you've even said it to friends in passing. Would you quit your work if you had the option? If that's the case, it's time to go.

7. You dread having to go to work:

Everyone has those days when they hit the snooze button too many times or need a little additional motivation to wake up and go to work. Perhaps the project you're working on isn't exciting you, or you're nervous before a meeting with the boss. But this isn't unusual; it happens every day. You live for the weekend, but despite your best efforts, by Saturday night, the dread of Monday has crept in. Suppose you're thus dissatisfied with your current job. In that case, it's time to consider whether other fields of work might better match your interests.

8. Negative Emotions Are Increasingly Common:

If you find yourself feeling pessimistic, or focusing on what isn't working, it's a solid sign it's time to make a change. This is why: If you stay and continue to feel underappreciated, underpaid, and undervalued, those bad feelings will grow and have an influence on your performance, relationships, and reputation. Make a decision about your next step, take steps toward it, and keep an eye on the future.

9. The money doesn’t help:

There are lots of cases where some are in it for the money. But what happens when even the pay doesn't do justice. Although the payment is good, the labor is mindless and terrible. You could once justify sticking because of the income, but that is no longer adequate. During meetings, you find yourself staring at the second hand of the clock. You've arrived on Tuesday after a long weekend, and you're already planning your next vacation day. While you value the steadiness that your employment gives, you're beginning to feel as if you're squandering your potential. These are clear indications that someone could benefit from a change.

10. You don't believe you're making a difference:

Your job responsibilities are the same every day. Every day looks and feels the same–you're just going through the motions. You feel unappreciated as if your time and talents are being squandered and your best abilities aren't being utilized. Demoralized, you've ceased actively looking for new ways to give over time. It's time to find a new role that plays to your strengths, allows you to learn new abilities, and allows you to make a difference. Your career should enhance rather than detract from your self-esteem.

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