Lots of people complain about their jobs, but you don’t want to be one of them. So, how can you find fulfilling work? Use these tips to find a job you will actually enjoy.
Define Your Best-Case Scenario
The first step in finding what you want is knowing what you want. Take out a blank piece of paper and write down everything you’re hoping your job could be. Items to consider include:
- Industry
- Impact on Society
- Work Environment
- Role
- Level of Responsibility
- Amount of Physical Activity
- Opportunities for Growth
- Hours/Schedule
- Commute Time
- Pay
If you’re not sure what your best-case scenario is, think back to your childhood. What did you want to be when you grew up? Sometimes, this will help you discover the right answer. And if you’re still stuck, use these free career aptitude and career assessment tests to gain additional insights.
Be Flexible
Sometimes your dream job isn’t possible. For example, very few of us will be professional athletes or movie stars. However, with a bit of flexibility and creativity, you should be able to find a related career. So, even if you can’t play for Green Bay Packers, you still could work in a sports-related industry.
Consider Your Desired Lifestyle
It’s a fact. Our jobs influence our lifestyles. As a result, consider both work AND life when choosing a career. For instance, a high-paying position with lots of responsibility will allow you to drive a fancy car. Yet, you’ll probably work longer hours and have less time to spend with your family. Ultimately, you’ll need to discover the balance between income and leisure that works best for you.
Set Realistic Expectations
Although it’s a nice thought, the perfect job doesn’t exist. Everybody has bad days at work! The trick is to find something you mostly enjoy. Also, keep in mind, this may take time. It’s unusual for someone to love their role from their first day until the moment they retire. Many people change positions, switch companies, and even pivot careers. After all, what you want at 21 may be quite different than what you want at 51. Therefore, it’s better to think of your job as a part of a journey rather than a destination.
Experiment with Different Opportunities
Often, we think we know what we want until we try it. Let’s say you spent your whole life dreaming of becoming a pre-school teacher. Yet, after spending a day trapped in a room with 4-year-olds, you’re having second thoughts. Remember, it’s essential to know what to expect before committing to a role. There are several ways to do this. You could job shadow, volunteer, intern, or take a contract/temporary position. All these options offer real-life experience along with flexibility.
Are You Ready to Find a Job You Will Actually Enjoy?
Halpin Staffing Services has a variety of contract-to-hire and full-time job opportunities available throughout Southeastern Wisconsin and Northeastern Illinois. Our recruiters would be happy to match you with best-fit positions. Browse all our openings and discover a job you love today!
