When the Job Doesn’t Fit
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we find ourselves stuck in a job that’s just not right for us. I know this feeling all too well. Back in 2015, I landed a position at a trade publication, but it quickly became clear that it wasn’t the career I had dreamed of.
A Desperate Situation
As a recent graduate with anxiety about my future, I was willing to take on any job that came my way. But this role was far from fulfilling. Instead of reporting on meaningful stories, I was tasked with writing dry press releases about an industry I didn’t care about. Despite my reservations, I took the job, hoping for the best.
A Perfect Storm of Frustration
Things only got worse. I was under the management of three different people, each with conflicting expectations. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t seem to meet their standards. My work suffered, and I felt like I was constantly walking on thin ice.
The Warning Signs
It wasn’t long before the warning emails and meetings started piling up. I responded to each concern with a plan to improve, but it seemed like no matter what I did, I was doomed to fail. My managers didn’t think I was mature enough for the position, and I felt like I was drowning in a sea of criticism.
Five Hard-Won Lessons
After less than a year, I knew I had to start looking for a new job. Through this difficult experience, I learned five valuable lessons:
1. Save for a Rainy Day
Having an emergency fund in place made all the difference when I knew termination was looming. I was able to build up a healthy savings account from day one, which gave me peace of mind and allowed me to focus on finding a new job.
2. Have a Plan B
Don’t wait until it’s too late to start looking for a new job. I began applying for positions as soon as I sensed trouble, and I even lined up a backup job with a former employer. Having a plan in place took some of the pressure off and gave me a sense of control.
3. Stay Engaged
It’s easy to give up when things aren’t going well, but I found that it was more beneficial to stay focused and show my strengths until the end. This not only helped me leave on good terms but also earned me better recommendations for future employers.
4. Prepare Your Story
When you leave a job, whether by choice or not, you’ll need to explain yourself to potential employers. Be prepared to talk about your experience in a positive light, focusing on what you learned and how you grew. Avoid bad-mouthing your former employer, and instead, show that you’re a team player who’s always looking to improve.
5. Take Care of Yourself
It’s easy to let a bad job consume your life, but don’t let it happen. Make time for self-care, whether that means exercise, socializing, or simply taking a break from the stress of it all. Remember that you are more than your job, and don’t let one bad experience define you.
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