1/3 of UK workers are considering a career change in the next 12 months.

It’s all too easy to get caught up in the daily tasks – endless deadlines, long hours, and pressures to meet expectations and deliver impressive results. While these challenges may come and go and feel like the ‘new normal’ routine, they might be a sign to take a step back and evaluate your career. 
Are you truly happy in your role? Is this the life you want for the next 10 years? Is it time for a change?

Here are 5 warning signs that you’re unhappy in your career, as well as practical steps to help you find satisfaction and make improvements.

1. You aren’t motivated in your current role 

If you're dreading your tasks or counting down the hours until the end of the workday, it might be a sign that your role isn't fulfilling enough. Imagine waking up excited and inspired by the work ahead - that's the kind of fulfilment you deserve. 

  • Discover your drive: Find what you enjoy (and don't) in your role, and write it down. Note these down and use them as talking points with your mentor or manager. 
  • Find inspiration: Follow podcasts, books, or thought leaders who inspire and motivate you. Apply one new insight to your routine each week.
  • Set small goals: Start small - a new skill, hobby, or side project. Track your progress and celebrate your small wins to build momentum.

2. You don’t have a healthy work/life balance 

If you often sacrifice your personal life to keep up work demands, you're likely experiencing burnout. Working hard is important, but balance is key to staying productive and fulfilled. A career isn't just about climbing the ladder - it's also enjoying the journey, both at work and in life.

  •  Set clear boundaries: Set aside focus time on your calendar and put aside any devices to minimise distractions. 
  • Prioritise self-care: Schedule regular breaks or downtime for you to enjoy activities and relaxing outside work.
  • Learn to say no: Be selective with extra tasks - decline or delegate when you're already busy to protect your energy and avoid burnout.

3. You can’t find a sense of meaning and purpose in your current role

If you're constantly questioning the value and impact of your work, your current role might feel empty and unfulfilling. A job that ignites your passions and aligns with your values can transform your daily work into a meaningful career journey - and one for the long-term. 

  • Identify your core values: Reflect on what truly matters to you, list them and compare them to your current role - finding out if it's a right fit. 
  • Explore your interests: Take a career assessment or personality test to identify your interests and strengths, and use these insights to seek out other roles or projects that closely align with these. 
  • Set meaningful goals: Write down value-driven career goals, and break them into actionable steps to create a clear roadmap with achievable milestones.

4. You don’t feel supported and recognised

If your efforts are often overlooked or voice goes unheard, it may be time to reassess your work environment. Being in a workplace that truly values your skills and recognises your achievements is crucial for staying motivated, confident, and driven. 

  • Reach out for support: Talk to support staff, such as HR or manager, about your concerns and specific examples, and discuss on a plan to address these and move forward. 
  • Look outside your close network: Connect with colleagues across different teams who can provide additional support, mentorship, and sponsorship. 
  • Document your achievements: Keep a record of your work and accomplishments, and share them with others to make sure that your contributions are recognised and valued.

5. You can’t see a clear path for career progression

If you feel like you've hit a glass ceiling in your current role, it can be incredibly frustrating and deflating. While promotions are key, it's also important to have opportunities for growth and learning, with the right support behind you. 

  • Look for feedback: Ask for regular feedback from your manager or team to identify areas for growth and development opportunities. 
  • Invest in learning: Look out for relevant training or certifications to build up your skillset, portfolio, and qualifications. 
  • Network actively: Connect with mentors and industry professionals to explore new opportunities and gain insights into potential career avenues.

If this is you, reflect, re-evaluate, and take action. 

If any of these questions resonate with you, it might be time to consider a career change. 

This is just the first step - identifying a lack of career fulfilment. The next step is knowing what your next career move is and how to get there. 
Have you ever considered a career as a financial adviser? In part 2, we'll explore how a career in financial advice can help address these key challenges and how training through our award-winning Academy could be your next career move.