Stuck in a Job You Don’t Love? This Quiz Will Tell You Why

Before we jump into our interactive questionnaire, let’s set the stage. It’s easy to fall into a routine and stay in a job because it feels secure. But sometimes, that security can become a trap, keeping you from reaching your full potential. So, how do you know if your job is a safety net or a step in the right direction? It’s time to find out.

 

 

Interactive Questionnaire: Is Your Job Just a Safety Net?

Grab a pen and paper, or just mentally note your answers. Answer each question honestly. Ready? Let’s go!

1. Why did you choose your current job?

   – A. It was the first thing available.

   – B. It aligns with my passions and skills.

   – C. It pays the bills.

2. How do you feel on Sunday evenings?

   – A. Dread the upcoming week.

   – B. Excited and ready to go.

   – C. Neutral, it’s just another week.

3. Do you feel challenged at work?

   – A. Rarely, it’s mostly routine.

   – B. Often, I’m always learning and growing.

   – C. Sometimes, but not enough.

4. How often do you think about changing jobs?

   – A. All the time.

   – B. Hardly ever, I love what I do.

   – C. Occasionally, when things get tough.

5.   Does your job align with your long-term goals?

   – A. Not really.

   – B. Absolutely.

   – C. Somewhat, but I’m not sure.

6. How do you feel about your coworkers?

   – A. They’re just people I work with.

   – B. They’re like family to me.

   – C. I get along with them, but it’s strictly professional.

7. Do you feel valued at work?

   – A. Not at all.

   – B. Yes, all the time.

   – C. Sometimes, but not consistently.

8. Are you proud of the work you do?

   – A. Not really, it’s just a job.

   – B. Very proud, it’s meaningful to me.

   – C. Somewhat, but it could be better.

9. How do you feel at the end of the workday?

   – A. Exhausted and drained.

   – B. Energized and accomplished.

   – C. Tired but content.

10. Do you see yourself in this job in five years?

    – A. No way.

    – B. Absolutely, it’s part of my career path.

    – C. Maybe, but I’m open to change.

 

Reflecting on Your Answers

Now that you’ve answered the questions, let’s reflect:

Mostly A’s: Your job might be a safety net. It provides security but does not fulfill your deeper needs or align with your passions. If you constantly feel drained or unmotivated, it might be time to explore other options.

Mostly B’s: You’re in a good place! Your job aligns with your goals, passions, and values. Keep thriving in your current role.

Mostly C’s: You’re somewhere in between. Your job has pros and cons, but there’s a nagging feeling that something more fulfilling might be out there. It’s worth exploring your options and seeing what may be a better fit.

Equal A & B selections: You’re at a crossroads. While your job may have started as a means to an end, parts of it bring you joy and align with your skills. The question is can you shift your role to focus more on what excites you, or is it time for a bigger career move?

Equal B & C selections: You’re in a solid position, but there’s room for more. You enjoy aspects of your job and find meaning in your work, but something might be missing. Is it growth? A stronger sense of purpose? More balance? Assess what would make your work life even better and create an action plan to get there.

 

Now What?

If you’ve discovered that your job is more of a safety net than a passion, don’t worry. This is the first step towards finding something that truly lights you up. Grab your journal. Here are some steps to help you move forward:

1. Get Clear on What You Want & Identify Your Passions: What do you love doing? What energizes you? What activities make you lose track of time? Sometimes we fall into jobs without questioning if it’s what we want. No more settling! Write it down – take a career assessment if you need to.

2. Assess Your Transferrable Skills: Your job may not be your dream job but it has value. You have gained skills usable elsewhere. Make a list. What are you good at? How can you use those skills in a different context?

3. Set Goals & Be Intentional: You’ve gained clarity, now set realistic goals. Do you need more education? Certifications? Where do you want to be in the next 5-10 years? What steps can you take to get there? Create a timeline with manageable actionable steps to shift your career.

4. Network & Seek Mentorship: The right opportunity could be one conversation away. Connect with people in fields you’re interested in. Learn from their experiences and get advice. Join industry groups, or social clubs, or reach out to mentors to guide you in the right direction.

5. Take Small Steps: You don’t have to change drastically overnight. Start small: take a course, volunteer, or start a side hustle. Small shifts can lead to major breakthroughs.

6. Give Yourself Permission to Dream Bigger: Your job should work for you not the other way around. You deserve a career the fulfills and challenges you. Start believing that – it’s the hardest part. You can redefine what success means for you and go for it.

Your dream job is out there, waiting for you to find it.