Burnt out... what would you do?

[seoj]

Ugh... I've posted about work in the past, I'm just still stuck. I hate feeling like I don't have a choice-- as I make good money, and there are lots of things I really do like about my job. I feel bad even complaining- as I know how lucky I am to have what I do... but I'm just burnt OUT! I've been in this line of work for over 15yrs now... I'm good at it (really good)- which is why I was able to work my way up without a degree... but, that is the part of the issue-- without a degree in something specific, I am very limited to what I can do- as I have all the experience in the world, but in my particular field in Information Technology (IT).

TBH- if I only KNEW what it was I wanted to do... so that I could at least start working towards it, or find a way to go back to school, or at least feel like I had a path... I would feel so much better. I think not knowing is what's driving me nutso!

This isn't new- I've felt this way for some time (yrs)- but put my feelings on the back burner and just took things day by day- as I had more important things to focus on... but now, it's like I can't stop thinking about what I COULD be doing instead... maybe it's silly... I just want someone to tell me what I should do. totally childish right? I'm just tired of trying to figure it out-- cause every time I *think* I have a great idea or plan... I do some research and discover it's crap.

Usually- I realized I'd have to go back to school for 4yrs (so take that time and energy and money away from my family) only to make 1/2 of what I make now...

Obviously no one can literally tell me what would work- I wish! I just never had to really think about it before- as opportunities just kinda came along, so I took them and worked hard to get where I am... but it's not exactly what I dreamed of doing when I was a kid. Or now! Eesh... tbh, if I could find a way to enjoy my job again, I would. I've tried- I really have... I even started at another company- then switched positions within that company... I've tried being more social with co-workers, I just don't know if I can change how I feel about it all... ?

Think I just needed another good vent... thanks for listening to my crazy!

 

[LDC]

I would definitely look at a new job if you're not happy, no one wants to be in a job that they don't like. I guess it depends on what you can afford to do as a family too, surely it's worth looking into an area that you'd be happier in but earning a little less? Especially if there is chance to progress in that area in due course?

I'm in a job that's not really related to my degrees and something I'd never thought of doing before but I absolutely love it and have managed to move up the ladder a fair way. Ultimately it's my happiness that keeps me going there though and I think that's something you should definitely focus on.

A happy mummy is best

Maybe look into what you want to do and study costs/reduce in pay etc and see if its feasible for you to pursue this? I'm sure you've many years before retirement and you want to make sure those years are happy ones

Xx

 

[seoj]

Thanks hun ^^

That is exactly where I am at-- I want a change... I'm ready! LOL. I just gotta figure out WHAT that change is... I have researched some new careers (even talked to people in that line of work that I happen to know through in-laws)- but ultimately, it's about finding a job that I not only enjoy, but that helps support my family- as we need my income. Maybe not AS much of an income as I have now- and for the right job I'd certainly consider a bit of a pay cut- but it's a fine line.

You are right- retirement is a ways off- and I want to be happy in my work as it's a big part of what I do 5 days a week! I've even considered another line of work within my industry- and applied for another job opportunity- but the position got cut, so... that didn't pan out. Doesn't mean it can't in the future? Might be the best option as I'd still be with the same company and it's an area I am familiar with- and still make as much (maybe more) than I do now... I can't say it will be the job I love, but it would certainly be worth a try before taking the time/energy/money of going back to school- so maybe I just keep looking for those opportunities while exploring other options.

You are very lucky you enjoy your job so much- I used to really like my job (in the past)- never loved it... but figured liking it was better than most.

 

[MrstoMommy]

Best of luck to you. I hope you find what you want.

 

[seoj]

So I decided to actually discuss this all with my Manger- I was just honest, and told her that although there are lots of things I enjoy about my job- there are some aspects I feel burnt out on after 15yrs- and that this isn't really where I want to continue to be the next 20 before retirement... she was awesome about it! She actually said I could ask her for references to people that might be able to help me- and that if this wasn't my best fit anymore, that I should be proactive and look into changes I can make within the company... which really, is a more realistic approach. As starting ALL over- doesn't make much sense at this point in my life. But maybe I could find another position with my current company- and the same overall dept but another area that I'd be happier in. I don't hate my job and there are lots of things I do like about it- especially leading projects and working with people on that level. That is where I feel I "thrive"-- so maybe I just look for a position above where I am at now? Like a project manager-- ?

All just thoughts for now- LOL. Felt the need to get more out and I do feel better after discussing this with my manger- she has always been a great supporter at work and knows what I'm capable of... so that is nice to have her in my corner I know she doesn't WANT to lose me- but would never want me to stay in a job if I'm not fulfilled in the way I want to be. Feeling better about things... so we shall see where this leads...