Lifestyle | How to Survive a Difficult Job and Stay Sane

Beauties,

Almost everyone of us has worked a job at one point in our lives that we weren't fond of. When you're in a job that you don't enjoy, what do you do? After working almost 15 years of my life, I have had to ask myself this question a few times. Instead of remaining unhappy in the job, I took action. The answer doesn't always have to be changing jobs. There are things you can do to make things better in the job and after reading this, you may even be able to decide if you should stay or go.

Before I go further, I suggest that you figure out what is making you unhappy in your job. Are you not growing? Have you hit the ceiling? Is your supervisor difficult to work with? Sometimes our issues with our job stem from within ourselves or issues at home rather than there being an actual issue at work. It could be that this isn't the right field for you, things are going on at home and/or you may need more training or education to do what you really want. With that said, let's get into a few tips I have for surviving a difficult job.

Five Ways to Survive a Difficult Job

1. Talk to your supervisor.

I know, I know. I would like to think that everyone has a supervisor that is open and easy to talk to, but I know that's not realistic. Sometimes, though, we have to put our big girl panties on. A good supervisor wants their employees to be happy so if you're not happy, have a talk with them. Supervisors may be able to give you advice on ways to get the most of out of the job.

If the issue is with the supervisor, then share with them what makes you unhappy. Be careful, though. You don't want to play the blame game nor get out of line. I learned at a conference a few months ago that one way to approach your supervisor is by saying how you feel. For example, "Sometimes I don't feel respected." In most cases, some supervisors don't even realize what they're doing and will take action to rectify the situation.

2. Get Involved

It always seems that no matter where I am, I always seem to get involved in planning or social committees. It's who I am, but you know what? It allows me to meet people and be in the know. I know everyone is not social, but when it comes to planning or social committees, it's more about being a do-er. You will be amazed at how your name magically appears in someone's mind when a new position and/or opportunity comes up in the office. Plus, these committees allow you to socialize, get to know others and spend a little time doing something new.

3. Accept More Training

I said this on my personal Facebook page recently. Whenever your employer offers training, take it! My goal at every job I've been at is to master it and learn as much as I can. When you open yourself up to learning more, it allows you to grow personally. I think we're the happiest when we're growing and not stagnant. I have found that learning new things keeps me from getting bored.

4. Make A Friend

Having one or two close friends at work can be such a life saver at times. Having a close ally allows you to have someone to laugh with and share thoughts. Plus, it gives you a sounding board. Now admittedly, you have to be careful whom you call a friend at work because not everyone has your well being in mind, but one or two true friends at work can turn a horrible day into one that makes you smile.

5. Apply for Other Jobs

When it all boils down to it, if none of the suggested tips ease some of the difficulty of your job, then perhaps it is time to look for another job. There's nothing wrong with that! That's life. Work during the day and apply for jobs at night. Go to local networking events and job fairs. It's also good to send your resume to local temp agencies. One of my temporary jobs turned permanent and ended up being a wonderful experience.