What If My Job Doesn't Fit My Personality?

Whether you've been working at the same job for a while or are new to your company, if you dread going to work every day, it might be time to reassess your career priorities. Having a position that matches your personality is ideal, but unfortunately, it doesn't always happen. So, if you feel your job isn't a good fit, what can you do to make it more bearable, or is it time to move on?

Do Some Self-Reflecting

The first thing you should do when you're unhappy with your job is take time for a little self-reflection. Why does the thought of going to work each morning sends shivers down your spine? Is it the company? Your co-workers? The environment? What you're doing every day? What is it about your job that makes it clash with your inner you? One thing you can do is learn more about personality types to discover yours. There are numerous questionnaires and tests you can take to help you identify your personality type. One popular version is Myers-Briggs, which takes 15 minutes to complete and breaks down personalities into 16 types.

Put Your Thoughts on Paper

While you're self-reflecting, make a pros and cons list. List the things you like and don't like about your current position. Maybe you like the environment but don't quite get along with your co-workers. Or maybe you enjoy what you're doing but don't agree with the way the office is organized or how you complete certain tasks. As you ponder on your list of pros and cons, try to determine which factors are deal-breakers and which are merely annoyances. The deal-breakers are probably the things that clash with your personality the most and make the job not seem like a good fit.

Then, see if there are any ways to mitigate the annoyances and deal-breakers you've identified. Perhaps your supervisor has you fill out a report a certain way because it's always been done in that manner, but with technological advances, there is a way to streamline the process and make it less of a hassle. Suggesting a few methods for doing things differently to your supervisor might result in a change that makes your life a little more bearable; plus, it gives your supervisor the impression you are innovative and open to new ideas.

Consider Alternatives

As you map out your path to career satisfaction, it's important to be absolutely honest with yourself. Maybe your expectations are too high and nothing will make you happy. Maybe it's something in your personal life that's affecting your satisfaction with your job. You might also really like your company but don't want to be in the same position. If you have a good reputation at work and would to like to expand your skill set, consider asking your boss if he could find something else you can do that would make you happier.

If you've tried your best to make your job fit your personality and aren't successful, it might be time to look for something else that's a better fit. Having a fulfilling career translates to every part of your life and has a huge effect on your well-being. There's no shame in wanting to be happy in a place where you probably spend most of your waking hours.

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