Every once in a while, it is healthy to pause, reflect, and think about where our working lives are heading. For many WEU members, work is not just about a wage, it is about dignity, growth, and balance. But sometimes, staying in the wrong job can harm both our career prospects and our wellbeing.
Knowing when it’s time to move on is just as important as knowing how to move forward.
Recognising the Signs
There are clear red flags that signal it may be time to start looking for something new. Some of the most common include:
- Lack of growth – you’re no longer learning or developing skills.
- Underused skills – your talents are wasted, leaving you bored or disengaged.
- Persistent stress – long-term pressure or burnout is taking its toll.
- No progression opportunities – you feel stuck in a dead-end role.
- Uncertain company future – doubts about the organisation’s direction make you uneasy.
- Clashing values – the company’s ethics no longer align with your own.
- Poor work-life balance – work consumes your life, leaving little time for family or rest.
- Dreading work – each day feels like “Groundhog Day.”
- Goals already achieved – you’ve done what you set out to do and are ready for more.
- Toxic culture – disrespect, bullying, or unhealthy environments drain you.
Any of these on their own can be reason enough to look elsewhere. Together, they point to a clear need for change.
Why It Matters
Staying in a job that no longer serves you can affect your mental health, motivation, and personal relationships.
Moving on isn’t just about earning more, though research suggests a job change can mean a 10–20% pay rise. However it about protecting your wellbeing and keeping your career moving forward. Recognising the need for change early means you can take control, rather than letting circumstances control you.
Taking the Leap
Once you have decided it’s time, the next step is preparation. Here’s a quick checklist to guide your search:
- Define what you want from your next role, is it more pay, career progression, or values, flexibility.
- Update your CV and tailor it to each application.
- Refresh your online presence.
- Register with recruitment agencies and set up job alerts.
- Network, online and in person.
- Prepare thoroughly for interviews and ask direct questions about company culture.
Changing jobs can feel daunting, but it can also be the start of something far more rewarding. Did you know that, the average person across the UK spends over 3,500 days at work. That’s too much time to be stuck in the wrong role.
It is always good to remember: growth, fulfilment, and balance aren’t luxuries, they are essential to enjoying work. If your current job no longer offers them, it may be time to take the leap into something better.