Signs That It May Be Time for a Career Change

In addition to directing security services at Connecticut-based security firm IRI Global, Brian Bugge is a consultant and author of books on personal and professional development, including What You Won’t Learn at School: Unless You Take My Class. Brian Bugge (www.BrianBugge.com & www.provocativeideas.com) offers pragmatic guidance on personal development topics to professionals in a wide range of sectors, positions, and roles.

Even workers in the most coveted professions can burn out if they find their work dissatisfying. Changing careers can be daunting, but for many individuals stuck in a professional rut, leaving a job is the best way to move their lives in a positive direction.

Here are a few signs that a career change may be a good option:

- Negative emotions. While experiencing some negative emotions is normal in any workplace, ongoing feelings of boredom, anxiety, or anger at work need to be addressed. These recurring emotions are often the first sign that some aspect of the job is not a good fit. Negative emotions at work can also lead to serious problems in your personal life.

- A toxic work environment. Many sources of stress may exist at work, and if an employee is not well-suited to the inconsistent demands of bosses and colleagues, these stressors can become debilitating. After careful consideration, workers may find that while the work itself is satisfying, the environment is not.

- Loss of meaning. A lack of advancement opportunities or sense of purpose in a job can quickly induce apathy and resentment in employees. In these cases, the most effective change may occur by "pivoting" to a new company or even changing careers.