It’s normal to feel burnt out at work sometimes, but when the feeling comes more frequently, there might be an underlying issue that could severely impact your overall well-being. Work hours already take up a large chunk of our daily lives as it is, so it’s important not to succumb to stressors that could lead to detrimental effects on our physical and mental health.

When it comes to job satisfaction, we should also consider the role that outside forces play. A recent report from Dutch HR consulting firm Randstad found that 49% of workers have become more stressed since the COVID-19 pandemic’s onset and plan to change aspects of their professional life. Randstad also suggests that more workers are prioritising self-improvement through reskilling, coaching, and upskilling efforts.

There are many reasons why workers are dissatisfied with their jobs, and they usually involve a lot of internal and external factors. This article explores some of the common reasons for job dissatisfaction and how to resolve them on your own.

Not Enough Work-Life Balance

Workers in Singapore typically spend a minimum of 40 hours a week on their jobs, and sometimes that time is largely spent interacting with colleagues instead of friends and family. This is why more and more people are looking for alternative employment set-ups that give them better work-life balance. Indeed in online job portals, work-life balance is now one of the key metrics candidates look at when evaluating potential employers.

While it’s true that work no longer feels like work when you’re doing what you love, it’s still important to allocate enough time for rest. Consider seeking fulfillment in activities outside of work without completely letting go of your responsibilities. Make time for hobbies and interests, or try something completely different that would make you realise your untapped skills in other areas. Reaching that happy medium between your professional and personal lives will do wonders not just for your well-being but your work attitude as well.

Misaligned or Unrefined Skill Sets

Almost all workers have had a “career existential crisis” at some point. You may have wondered if you’re in the right career or if your expertise is good enough to progress in your field. Maybe you feel that your daily tasks don’t utilise your full potential. Sometimes, to move forward professionally, you have to take the initiative.

Instead of begrudgingly accepting your career status, why not work on the skills that you currently have? A comprehensive way to do this is by getting a secondary or postgraduate degree. If you want a more viable yet still legitimate approach, sign up for short training courses or workshops designed to equip you with the relevant skills through mentorship and direct instruction. Consider enrolling in certification programmes such as SkillsFuture courses Singapore citizens and permanent residents are entitled to take. These courses offer comprehensive training in various disciplines like advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, data analytics, digital media, entrepreneurship, finance, tech, and urban solutions. Taking proactive steps to retrain or upskill yourself will open doors to possible promotions – or other jobs that you may find more suitable than your current capacity.

No Sense of Direction

We’ve all been asked this question in job interviews: “Where do you see yourself five years from now?” Some have a clear trajectory and see career progression on the horizon. Those who don’t are prone to burnout and feel as though they’re dragging themselves to work every day. These workers go through the daily motions of clocking in and out with no sense of productivity or accomplishment.

Make a list of your professional goals and the steps you intend to take, both short-term and long-term. If you feel like you should be doing something more, equip yourself with the right skills and mindset to take the first step towards your goal—be it being in another role, department, or job.  It might also be a good idea to talk to your superiors to get another perspective, provided that you have a good relationship with them.

Negative Mindset and Disengagement

It’s impossible to be enthusiastic about work all the time, but sometimes it takes just a dash of optimism to get through the day. A “can-do” attitude is a plus point for any job candidate, and nurturing it will give way for professional relationships to thrive. Without over-exerting yourself, reinforce the belief that you are capable enough of accomplishing the tasks at hand. It would also help to go through every workday with your long-term goals in mind to stay motivated.

Another source of negative thinking is the need to compare yourself to others. Avoid weighing up chapters of your life with those of others and expend energy on self-improvement instead. You’ll be a happier employee and a better colleague when you don’t bother with the competition and focus on yourself. A positive mindset also spurs a more harmonious relationship with managers and coworkers, leading to better collaboration, stronger professional relationships, and lifelong friendships.

Change Starts from Within

Instead of waiting for change, you should be able to take charge and push yourself forward. Ultimately, the key to being happier at work is to know your worth—what you currently possess and what you have the potential to do.

HR Future Staff Writer