What to Do If You Hate Your Job But Can't Leave It Yet

Few things feel worse than putting in time at a job you hate. If you've decided that it's time for a career change, but can't quit just yet, going to the office everyday might feel like a real chore. Don't despair, though; the light at the end of the tunnel is closer than you might think. Here are a few tips to help you get through the days until you're ready for the big shift.

Find a Way to Be Authentic

It's really easy to feel like a fake at the office when you're dissatisfied with your current job and are planning a career change. Sharing your feelings is a great way to relieve some of the stress. Find a trustworthy co-worker, and confide when it feels appropriate. This can help you validate your feelings and might help your colleague cope, too. Just make sure you aren't viewed as a whiner, and avoid slipping into workplace gossip.

Keep an Eye on the Big Picture

Job dissatisfaction is often related to a feeling of disconnect from the work your organization does. Regularly remind yourself of how your personal responsibilities have an impact on the organization as a whole. Do you keep detailed financial records? Remember that those figures make other people's jobs easier. Even something as simple as making a great pot of coffee can go a long way toward improving office morale.

Build on Your Strengths

Make a list of things you do really well, and incorporate them into your work. If you're a people person, make it a point to really connect with co-workers, management and clients. Challenge yourself to get to know everyone you interact with, from the housekeeping staff to top-level management. Are you are great writer? Spend extra time crafting beautiful emails, and volunteer for writing tasks in your department. Even if no one notices, you get personal satisfaction from knowing that you're using your talents and growing skills, which can ultimately help with your career change.

Reduce Your Hours

This might be impossible for some workers, but it can't hurt to ask. If you are nervous, start small. Ask your boss if you could leave an hour earlier every day, or suggest a four-day workweek. Less time at work gives you more time to look for another job, take a class or pursue other interests, ultimately facilitating a career change into a better position.

Focus on the Positive

After you've made the decision to pursue a career change, it can be really easy to dwell on every little negative, from a printer jam to a frown from a supervisor. Instead, make a concentrated effort to be grateful for the positive. If a co-worker is always disgruntled, focus on all the people you encounter who are pleasant. If you have mundane work tasks, be glad that you don't have to think too hard. After especially difficult days, be grateful for the extra motivation for your job search.

With a little effort, you can make your workdays more bearable as you prepare for your career change. Stay positive on the job, and find ways to utilize your strengths and expand your horizons. Work towards reducing your hours, and use this newfound free time for job searching or skill building efforts focused on securing an exciting new career.

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