Being unhappy in your current job role maybe more common than you think.  Sometimes people wait too long before they realise that their job is not making them happy and this can impact negatively in different ways. Quitting may be the best thing for your career, depending on your circumstances, but most people can’t afford to leave their current job on a snap decision. 

But how do you know when you need to decide to find a new job? Research shows that stress from your job can impact both your physical and mental health, and prolonged stress can cause burnout and depression. Holding off on handing in your notice for too long may also impact your career; you may end up jeopardising your relationship with your employer or could end up coming across as unproductive and unprofessional if your motivation drops.

Here are 8 red flags that you need change to your job. 

1. You’re regularly complaining about work

If you’re venting about work over every dinnertime with your loved ones at the end of the day, it might be time to make a positive change and find a new job. It’s normal to think about your job outside of work, but some of this time should be thinking about positive things and highlights of your day. Get feedback from you relatives, do they think you are always being negative about your current job role? 

2. Do you find the work unfulfilling? 

One of the most obvious signs that you need a new job is that you’re bored at work. If you’re bored, your productivity levels decrease and everything feels like a chore. When looking for a new job because you’re bored, look for a job that will mentally stimulate you and keep you interested in the long run.

3. Has your sleeping patterns changed? 

If you have trouble sleeping, or if you find yourself waking up in the middle of the night worrying about your job, this is another indicator that you need to make a change somewhere. Sleep is essential to your physical and mental health, and it can, unfortunately, exacerbate the situation and you will end up tired at a job you already find a challenge.

4. Are you getting increased headaches or colds?

When your mental health has been affected for a period of time, it can start to impact your physical health. If you find yourself getting sick more often, your job and the job-related stress associated might be to blame.

5. Has your drinking increased?

Everyone needs a drink after a long working week every now and again to wind down, but your job shouldn’t be driving you to drink a whole bottle of wine. If you realise your alcohol or smoking consumption is increasing due to work stress, you should take some time to reflect on your career path and professional situation.

6. Are you eating more?

When some people are stressed it can impact their appetite as well as their cravings for alcohol. If you’re either eating a lot more or less than usual, this may be a sign that your stress from work is getting too much.

7. Do you dread Monday morning when Sunday evening comes around?

When you love your job, ‘Sunday blues’ aren’t a regular part of your week. But if you find you’re dreading Monday every week, considering reevaluating your position.

8. Are you arguing more with co-workers?

If it’s getting to the point where your dissatisfaction with your job is causing tension in the office and between you and your other colleagues, it’s definitely a red flag to start looking for a new job. If this stress and tension escalate, it could lead to an accidental outburst that could result in a performance meeting about your behaviour. 

It’s always better to leave a job on good terms with all staff and your employer, so they can be kept as a source for recommendations and professional connections. 

All of these signs can be an indicator that you need to start looking for a new role in your career. Your mental wellbeing is not something that should be subsided, so if you are continuously stressed or experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned, you should re-evaluate your employment. 

Why not check out our tips on a CV Template and how to write a resignation letter here or search all our latest jobs to the right.