On almost a daily basis I read articles about how people are changing their jobs every 3 years or so in an effort to combat boredom, career stagnation, and to grow their income. For those of you who know me and might be reading this post, you may remember my incessant fussing about my job. For years. Let’s be clear-it’s a great job. I work with wonderful people, it’s a casual atmosphere, and there are many perks. I’m not going to mention my field other than to say I am an administrator to a program serving a diverse clientele.
The thing is I have worked in the same office since 2004! Yep, 2004. Fortunately, my position has grown and has changed quite a bit through hard work, dedication, and a lot of tears. While I have the same job title, my salary has increased by a significant percentage, and a toxic work situation has finally resolved itself. With that situation taken care of I find that I am enjoying what I’m doing again. I even have a minimum of 3 weeks of vacation a year not including bank holidays.
Have I become a Lifer? You know, that person who works in one place for their whole life? The answer is a resounding “NO!” But, I’ve discovered that there is a middle ground. In 2008 I was very seriously wanting to leave my job and do something different. You all know what happened in 2008. The Great Recession began and I made a pragmatic choice to stay put. I am so glad that I did. Because I’m an adult and I had to make some grown up decisions. I had purchased a very affordable home in 2007, I had debt, and I had to eat.
There are a lot of us out there who had to change their trajectory and walk away from a path that was more desirable at the time. Sometimes making the more logical choice opens up opportunities that you might not expect. Since I stayed in my position I had to aggressively look for ways to grow my job and keep myself relevant in my position. This was not easy. It took a level of energy that I really didn’t have at the time due to personal issues. I sucked it up and worked hard and remained relevant in my position.
If you find yourself in a similar position don’t feel badly about having to do what is right for you…even after bitching and complaining for years about how unhappy, frustrated, and tired you were. I know from experience.
I will continue to grow possibilities both within my current position and through my blogging. As I continue to do this there will be a moment when everything comes together and it will be my time to leave. Until then I will continue to work hard, efficiently, look for opportunities to be more effective in my position. I will look for ways to improve my skills and contribute to the office and business in a positive way.
I might not be a “Lifer” but I’ve become ok with being there a little longer…while keeping my eye on the big picture.
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Haha I love that scene from the Hangover. I worked at my first job for a little over 5 years and have been at my current for 3 years. I think self-employment will be my lifer 🙂
Once I transition out I think being self-employed will also be my lifer! But, I am glad that I made the hard decision regarding my current position. It was the smart thing to do and in retrospect I have no regrets.
***This comment is from Tonya at Budget and the Beach*** Sometimes her computer and my website don’t like each other. Today is one of those days 🙁
I think it’s totally OK to stay at your job for a long time as long as you find ways to make it enjoyable, which you sound like you have. At my last full time job, there were ups and downs but it was very comfortable. I probably could have stayed there a long time, which pursuing outside revenue and side jobs to keep l life interesting. Your’e doing a great job!
Thanks Tonya! It’s hard because I fussed for so long because I was so unhappy. I realize that a lot of my unhappiness stemmed from having a really bad boss. REALLY bad. When we meet in person I’ll tell you all about it. It’s amazing how much the leadership in your workplace can make such a huge difference in job satisfaction. I just have to make sure that I stay relevant and focused on the big picture. There are days when it’s hard and days when it’s easy.
It sounds like you’re really working hard to make your job work for you. I’m sort of in the same situation. My job isn’t ideal for me, but if I work at it, I can melt it into something that will, at the very least, provide me the necessary skills to change jobs later in life.
I trying to keep focused and forward looking. Being in the same job for so long def. made me worry a little bit that I’ve negatively affected my career. But, I don’t think so because I’ve tried to grow my skills and keep up with current trends in business. I’m basically making it work.
You have such a great attitude towards your job Michelle! That’s very admirable 🙂 Nothing wrong with being a “lifer” I’ve come to the realization that only a select few are passionate about what they do in life. My current job isn’t my passion but it’s security and pays my bills and debts! so I try to find other things in my life to be passionate about.
I have to work hard on this attitude. Really. You missed the whining years. It helps that my horrible boss no longer works there and the stress has eased up quite a bit. It’s hard because I was really passionate about what I do. Now, I’ve done it to long and am just being pragmatic about it.
I’ve been at the same place since 2004, as well, and have moved up and around, and will most likely stay in the same place unless I move. It’s not my passion, but I like the stability and I’m partial to the cause. It sounds like you’ve been on an upward trajectory at your place, as well, so even though it might be the same place, at least you’re constantly challenging yourself rather than being stagnant!
Thanks Anna! I had hoped to move to another position years ago. Sometimes things don’t work out the way that you would like but it still ends up being a good situation. I will continue to push myself and create opportunities within my current role. Some days are harder than others though!