1. Reflect on the Root Cause

Really think about what’s making you unhappy at work. This will help you shape your next steps.

  • Do you enjoy some parts of your job but not others?
  • Do you like your job but feel you need more to do?
  • Do you enjoy your job but feel ready for the next step? What does that look like for you—more responsibility, more technical work, or mentoring others?
  • Do you like your job but want/need to earn more?

In all these cases, your first step should be to speak to your boss. Prepare beforehand:

  1. Identify what’s bothering you and explore your goals in depth.
  2. Research other roles or duties within the company that align with your aspirations.
  3. Think about how these changes would positively impact the business.

If you can show the value you add to the company, your chances of success increase significantly. Be realistic –  companies often can’t implement changes overnight. Work towards an agreement with specific milestones and goals over time.

2. Assess Relationships with Your Boss, Team, or Company

If the issue lies with your boss, team, or company, ask yourself why. Understanding this will clarify what you’re looking for in your next role.

  • Knowing what you don’t want can be just as helpful as knowing what you do.
  • Consider how to articulate these feelings positively—no one wants to hear you bad-mouth your current workplace.

Try speaking to your boss about the challenges you’re facing.

  • Plan your points carefully to present them fairly and constructively.
  • If needed, write notes to organise your thoughts.

If you work in a larger organisation, you might explore transferring to a different team. Reach out to the hiring manager and explain your circumstances and motivations.

3. Understand If It’s a Job Misfit

If you don’t like your job at all, consider what aspects you dislike and what you’d enjoy doing instead. Identifying this might take effort, but it’s worth it.

Switching careers often requires significant changes, so be prepared:

  • Research your interests, motivations, and long-term goals.
  • Investigate new career paths: What training will you need? How can you acquire it? How long will it take?
  • You may need to stay in your current role temporarily to fund your transition.
  • In cases where transferable skills are lacking, you might have to start at a more junior level, potentially with lower pay. Plan accordingly.

4. Leverage the Power of Conversatio

Talking things through with someone can unlock answers. Reach out to:

  • A friend, mentor, trusted colleague, parent, boss, or career adviser.

Grab a coffee and chat—it’s often the first step to finding clarity.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re unhappy at work, try finding small positives in your day-to-day:

  • A customer you helped, a chat with a colleague, praise for a job well done, or even just the pay cheque at the end of the month.
  • Acknowledge the progress you’re making towards change.

Staying in a negative mindset can harm not only your mental health but also your relationships and reputation.

I hope this helps if you’re considering your career options. Happy job hunting—whatever that may look like for you!

Written by Rebecca Headden, CO-Director, R13

Gold and Strategic Partners