What to do if you are stuck in a wrong career

Do you feel stuck in the wrong career? Well, you are not alone. According to a recent survey by LinkedIn, it has been found that around one-third of the working professionals in India feel stuck in their present job. This is a reason why many professionals, especially youngsters, resort to switching careers or frequent job-hopping in India.

Realising that you are in the wrong career, not only makes you unhappy, but there are feelings of despair and panic especially if you are in your 40s. You suddenly realize that all your years of education, promotions, career growth, and experience has gone to vain. While switching careers in the 20s might seem practical, it may be difficult for a 40-something individual. He/she has financial obligations, family responsibilities, and a sudden switch in career might seem risky.

So, what do we do? This is a major turning point in your life and instead of panicking, it is time to introspect. To help you out, here are some quick reminders:

How do you know that you are stuck in a wrong career?

Your career is financially fulfilling, you are in a very important position in your company, and have bagged multiple awards, but still, have to drag yourself to the office every day. Your work seems tedious and you don’t feel motivated anymore. These are clear signs that you are in the wrong career. If you are still perplexed, look out for these easy signs:

• Bored to Core

Your work is boring. You no longer feel getting up in the morning and going to the office and no it is not Monday morning blues. It happens almost every day. You no longer feel obligated to attend company meetings or even mingle with co-workers. You feel chained to your desk and look for weekends for relief. No matter what you do, you cannot escape boredom.

• Lack of Appreciation

You feel demotivated or undervalued in your organisation. Your work routine does not challenge you anymore and you feel that there is nothing more to contribute. No matter how hard you work, you are never appreciated. You feel your company is not utilising your full potential. Such people are always complaining and whining about their job responsibilities in the company.

• Frequent Job Change

You are a frequent job hopper. People who quit and get fired frequently from jobs are always disgruntled and complain about their colleagues or job scenario. Joining new companies does not help either. This is a clear indicator that changing jobs is not a solution.

• Working for Money

You realise that you have turned into a money-making machine. Your company is paying you a high salary but you still feel unfulfilled at heart. You disagree with the moral values of the company and it no more has a meaningful impact in your life.

How to make things work for you?

The moment you realise that you are stuck in the wrong career, a lot of emotions may seep in. You feel stagnant in your present situation and all this negative energy may even lead to depression. Here we have to realise that a sudden career change is not easy and there is no quick-fix solution. Instead of panicking, we have to make some meaningful changes in our lives so that we do not spend the rest of our professional years in despair. Here are a few reminders:

1. Focus on your current job 

Do not take any drastic steps. Instead, focus on what is bothering you. Is it the office environment, your colleagues, salary, or management? Before making the big decision, find out what drove you to take this job in the first place. Instead of focusing on the drawbacks, identify the things that you love most about your present job.

2. Be vocal

A lot of misunderstanding in the workplace occurs due to lack of communication. If you are facing a major professional or personal crisis, talk to your colleagues or your senior and sort things out. Do not hesitate to share new ideas with your colleagues. It will bring a sense of trust and clarity and help you make the right decision.

3. Pep-talk might help

A pep-talk with your friends or colleagues in a similar profession might help. Some of them may be going through the same situation and may feel trapped in their jobs. Ask them how they are dealing with the whole scenario. Also, reach out to old colleagues who have done a successful career shift. You may consult them and seek their professional advice.

4. Do not lose hope

Stop doubting yourself. A career change may be overwhelming but remember you are not alone. There are thousands out there who are feeling in the same way. Find your true inner self. Focus on what you really want. If you are determined, it’s time to pump up your confidence and get ready for the next phase in your life.

5. Take a break

A lot of stress and anxiety in the workplace are due to overworking. Maintaining a balance between work and personal life is equally important. Try volunteering in community services. Spend quality time with family. Reinvent yourself and develop new skills. Join hobby classes and exercise regularly. A fit body and mind are important for a happy life.

6. Develop transferable skills

Making a career change does not necessarily mean that you have to start from scratch. Developing new skills may be time-consuming. Instead, identify transferable skills that closely match your present skills and will help you in your career transition. 

7. Take professional courses

Before taking the big leap, think about how professionally well-equipped you are. If you want to make a career shift, keep yourself updated with the new developments in the industry. Participate in professional workshops or certificate courses and get familiarized with the recent trends.