Feeling Unfulfilled at Work?
You’re Not Alone
Are you feeling unfulfilled at work? Do you feel like you're just going through the motions every day without any sense of purpose or satisfaction? If so, you're not alone. Many people experience this same feeling, and it can be challenging to know how to handle it. Here's what you need to know about feeling unfulfilled at work and what you can do about it.
You’re (Unfortunately) in Good Company
They say that misery loves company, though if you’re unhappy in your job, it can be challenging to spend time around others who share in the negative energy. Here’s a few statistics from recent studies that illustrate just how many people might be feeling the same way:
- 70% of workers in the United States feel unfulfilled in their jobs (Indeed, 2020).
- 62% of workers in the United States feel burnt out from their jobs (Monster, 2021).
- 59% of workers in the United States believe they are in a job that does not make good use of their skills and abilities (University of Phoenix, 2019).
- 38% of workers in the United States feel underemployed, meaning they are not using their full skill set in their current job (Robert Half, 2019).
- 35% of workers in the United States are considering leaving their jobs due to feeling unfulfilled (Society for Human Resource Management, 2020).
Why Do People Feel Unfulfilled at Work?
Some people don't feel like they're using their skills or abilities to their fullest potential. Others don't feel challenged or stimulated by their work, or they don't feel like their work is making a meaningful impact on the world.
Whatever the reason, feeling unfulfilled at work can be a significant source of stress and unhappiness. It can lead to burnout, job dissatisfaction, and even depression. That's why it's essential to recognize these feelings and take steps to address them.
What Can You Do About It?
Identify the Specific Problem. The first step in addressing feelings of unfulfillment at work is to identify the problem. What is it specifically that's making you feel this way? Is it the work itself, your colleagues, or your boss? Is it the work itself or the work environment? Once you've identified the problem, you can start to develop a plan to address it.
Develop a Plan. Developing a plan to address your feelings of unfulfillment is critical. It could involve talking to your boss about your workload, seeking out additional training or education, or looking for a new job entirely. You may also want to consider taking on a side project or hobby that aligns with your interests outside of work.
Find Meaningful Work. Finding work that aligns with your interests and values is essential to feeling fulfilled in your career. Consider what type of work would make you feel the most fulfilled and start exploring opportunities in that area. Completing a strengths inventory or assessment can help you gain language to talk about what you most need and want.
Seek Support. Seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist can also be helpful in dealing with feelings of unfulfillment at work. Talking to someone can provide you with a fresh perspective and help you come up with new ideas for how to address the problem.
Feeling unfulfilled at work is a common experience, but it's not something that you have to accept as normal. Identifying the problem, developing a plan, finding meaningful work, and seeking support can all help you overcome these feelings and find greater fulfillment in your career. Remember that it's never too late to make a change, and taking steps to address these feelings can lead to a happier and more fulfilling life.
