How to be happy in a job you hate

There usually comes a time in all of our lives where we have to work a job we hate. But sometimes it’s necessary to work these jobs just to pay the bills or to help you get the required experience to move into a better role or even start a new career. Either way, we have a few tips and tricks you can do to improve your relationship with your job. If you can’t change the situation, you may as well make the most of it, right?!

Here’s our advice on how to enjoy a job you hate:

• Pinpoint the problem(s)
• Appreciate the positives
• Have something to aim for
• Don’t make your job your life

4 ways to be happier in a job you hate

Pinpoint the problem(s)

It’s easy for people to say they don’t like their job, but very often they’ll only dislike certain elements of the job, and others they don’t mind so much. It’s useful to sit down and actually identify which parts of your role are making you unhappy. 

Is it a certain task? Is it the person you’re sat next to? Is it your targets?

You may find that some of these things are fixable or you may be able to talk to your manager about it to find a workaround. Don’t feel like you have to suffer in silence – it’s perfectly fine to seek support from your manager.

Appreciate the positives

No matter how much you hate your job, there’s always something to be thankful for. And recognising the positive aspects of your role may just provide you with a little extra motivation in the mornings. You may not enjoy the work, but at least you’re earning money to pay for your bills. You might be on low pay, but at least you’re gaining experience to help you get a better job.

Have something to aim for

One of the most depressing things about working in a job you hate is feeling like you’re stuck there with no way out. That’s why you need to create a plan to get yourself to where you want to be. Decide what career is right for you, and work out what you need to do to get there.

Maybe you’ll need to aim for a promotion. Maybe you’ll need to complete a qualification in your free time.

Whatever it is, make sure you’ve defined your roadmap out of the job.

Don’t make your job your life

Even if you love your job, it’s healthy to make sure you have a life outside of work. Give yourself something to look forward to like salsa classes, going to the gym, or taking up an art class. This will help to lift your spirits and ensure your work doesn’t become your whole world.

How long should you stay in a job you don’t like?

Nobody should ever settle for a job they hate. You may have to work it for a short period, but always know that you can and will do better. What’s important is that you maintain enough energy and motivation to work towards your long-term career aims. If you hate your job so much that you can’t even focus on the light at the end of the tunnel, you need to find a new job fast. Just be mindful not to switch jobs too frequently (ie. changing jobs every 6-12 months) as prospective employers won’t like to see this on your CV

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