Hate Your Job or Just Suffering Burnout? How to Survive

First things first, be sure you hate the job. I say this because these days the problem of burnout is a lingering problem that employers must face.  With layoffs, cutbacks, wage reductions, and demands to get work done, today's workforce is required to do more with less and it is taking a toll on those who are working.  Employers will find they need to attend to this matter or when the job market improves there will be a mass exodus...but back to surviving. 

Burnout vs. Hate My Job

The difference is this, if you once enjoyed your job and the people at your workplace but things changed once there were layoffs you probably have a form of burnout. People who are under stress but burned out tend to have short tempers.  Things that would just roll off your back linger and fester.  People who ordinarily are nice aren't so nice.  

On the other hand, if you are never really were challenged and just took the job because you needed to work then it probably is not a good job for you. Now the challenge is to survive. 

How to Survive Burnout

If your problem is burnout, you need time away or something to look forward to outside of work.  Obviously the best solution is time away.  Failing that, a hobby or activity that is a reward and you look forward to on a regular basis can keep you focused on more positive things.  That may be a class at a college in something that interests you.  An activity or hobby you always wanted to try.  Maybe that hope is just a new job in your same company like a transfer to a new department.  You will be challenged with new skills and responsibilities. 

How to Survive...I hate my Job

Some of the solutions to burnout will help, including possibly a transfer but the long term solution is another job.  Now I'm not recommending you up and quit in today's market but working on an exit plan may give you some focus.

Part of that plan has to be some career assessment on your skills and natural inclinations regarding work.  If that is not included you will likely just end up at another job you don't like.  There are sites online that offer that kind of tool along with all the other tools you need to find and get a new job like resume critique, interview tips, weekly live webinar training and more.  One example is the JobHuntWiz career portal.  With a valid email address you can create your account and develop your plan for free. 

Survival

The way to survive is to have something to look forward to.  Depending on if you are burned out or just don't like your job will guide you to your answer.  Good Luck and don't quit until you land that next position.