Having a job in this economy is a good thing. I have several friends who have lost their jobs in the recession and feel guilty complaining about mine. Even the most prestigious jobs can get boring and routine. You soon expect less of yourself and of the job which creates a vicious cycle of unengagement.
I am very fortunate to have the job I do. The company is terrific; the people, even better. I do sometimes get into a rut where assignments don't seem very interesting. I've noticed the trend and have a terrific colleague who shares this feeling. Luckily, we've never been bored at the same time and can help motivate when the tasks seem more routine than we'd like. Unfortunately for me, she found another position so now I'm on my own and hoping my list and the ideas you add will help keep my job feeling more like a career than the daily grind.
1. Learn what you love
Back when I was an undergrad, we had the book "What Color is Your Parachute?". It's still available as well as many others to help you discover where your real talents and interest lie.
2.Take time off
Stop the workaholic routine. you need a break and your friends and family need your attention. Take a vacation for a full week at least once a year. Stop working on your days off too. Get enough sleep. You need time away. If your to do list is consistently too long to complete during regular hours, have a talk with your manager.
3.Hone your skills
No matter where you are on the career ladder, you can always get better at what you do. Stephen Covey used the phrase sharpen your saw in his book "Habits of Highly Effective People". Take a class, practice, and make an effort to get better.
4. Network
Another way to broaden your knowledge is to get to know others in your field. LinkedIn is the Facebook of professional life. Join a business organization or online group to connect with people who do what you hope to do.
5. Be realistic about your goals
When I was a kid, I wanted to be a Broadway singer. Unfortunatly my voice doesn't sustain that dream. Make sure what you hope to do is within the realm of possibility so you don't set yourself up for failure. If you want a promotion, take several concrete steps to get you and your company prepared.
6. Learn two levels above you
This is advice I haven't tried but should. I fyo uknow what your boss's boss is working on, you can make sure your work supports that and gain from the additional perspective. What are the goals and priorities two levels above? If you don't know, find out.
7. Work with integrity
When you are tired or burned out, it's easy to slack off. This certainly won't get you to the next level or help you find a better opportunity. Give your current job it's full due even if you know it's not the place you want to be a year from now.
8. List the positives
Make a list of what is good about your position. It serves as a reminder that things are not so bad. It also shows you what you value so you can look for those things in the next one.
9. Find your purpose
It may not be work. You may see your job as a means to an end for another are of your life. My younger daughter has a not-s-good job. She keeps it though because the schedule is flexible so she can focus on school and sports, two things important to her.
10. Look for mentor
Although there are a few organizations who pair mentor and mentees from different organizations, the research on this suggests that informal mentors work better. If you develop a relationship with someone whose work habits you admire, you both benefit. You get advice and a positive role model. The mentor grows by sharing time and information.
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