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Part 2: Consequences of Low Job Satisfaction and Tips to Overcome it.

1/30/2019

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In this two-part series: I explore the meaning of job satisfaction, the consequences of low job satisfaction and ways to improve job satisfaction in your own life.
 
Picking up where we left off, it’s time to recognize the downsides of low job satisfaction and how to conquer it. 
 
Remember in the last post when I told you that most of the world’s population spends one-third of their lives at work? Being discontent in an activity that occupies such a major chunk of your time can have significant ripple effects on your life both inside and outside the office. 

Some of these consequences include (but are not limited to):

  • Stress: Feeling trapped in an unsatisfying career can cause feelings of apprehension and anxiety that can impact everything from sleep habits to physical health. Chronic stress has also been linked to depression.
 
  • Interpersonal Conflict: Job dissatisfaction has a nasty habit of permeating one’s personal life, which can lead to disconnection or conflict in the home. 
 
  • Decreased Productivity: Unhappiness or a lack of fulfillment at work can lead to low motivation both on and off the job. 
 
  • Job Loss: In extreme cases, low satisfaction could put your job in jeopardy if it results in mistakes or unprofessional conduct. 
 
HOW TO IMPROVE JOB SATISFACTION

Strategies for improving job satisfaction are subjective and vary in each situation. Less extreme cases could be improved with a few simple tweaks while more extreme cases may require a drastic change.
 
Here are some of my go-to tips for improving job satisfaction:
 
  • Shake Things Up: If work is leaving you unfulfilled, try integrating an extracurricular activity for some balance. Take up a new hobby (or rediscover an old one!), start exercising or simply make more time to socialize with friends. Finding happiness outside of work could leave you feeling more energized on the job!
 
  • Turn It Off: Technology has made it harder than ever for people to unplug but taking a mental break from the office is key to achieving work-life balance and overall job satisfaction. Do your best to set boundaries around checking emails and working after-hours.
 
  • Speak Up: Consider speaking with HR or management about your concerns and how you might feel more fulfilled at work. Confiding ina loved one or trusted professional about the situation can provide additional comfort and guidance.
 
  • Explore Your Options: If your job is simply not a fit, maybe it’s time to see what else is out there. Check job boards, start networking and/or consult a career placement professional to get the ball rolling. 
 
  • Take a Break: Depending on the situation, this could mean anything from a vacation (yes!) to a longer leave of absence.
 
With work playing such a significant part in our lives, it’s important to feel satisfied on the job. Consider the above strategies if you’re struggling in this area and reach out to a therapy professional if you need additional support. 

 

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Part 1: Why Job Satisfaction is Key to a Healthy Life

1/15/2019

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In this two-part series: I explore the meaning of job satisfaction, the consequences of low job satisfaction and ways to improve job satisfaction in your own life.
 
While the start of a new year is generally seen as a time of optimism and change, for many it’s a time of introspection and self-examination, particularly when it comes to work.
And it’s easy to see why. 

According to the World Health Organization, a majority of the world’s population spends one-third of their livesin the office so it stands to reason that people want their careers to offer a certain degree of fulfillment.  

Unfortunately, career satisfaction isn’t universal and low job satisfaction can have serious consequences for people both inside and outside the workplace. 

WHAT IS JOB SATISFACTION?


Job satisfaction is a term that gets thrown around a lot, but what does it really mean in the practical sense? And what are some real-world indicators of workplace fulfillment?

In my observation, job satisfaction is dependent on a host of factors, including (but not limited to):
  • positive reinforcement and acknowledgement 
  • fair compensation and time-off allowances
  • healthy work-life balance
  • opportunity for advancement
  • supportive management
  • harmonious relationship with co-workers 
  • positive work environment and healthy workplace culture

Someone who is professionally satisfied is usually content to go to work and doesn’t dread the thought of Monday morning. They generally feel a sense of contribution and perceive that their day-to-day tasks fall in line with their professional goals. A common thread among satisfied employees is knowing their work is respected and valued.

Canada’s former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Brian Dickson, hit the nail on the head in describing the importance of workplace conditionsto an individual’s overall wellbeing:

        “A person’s employment is an essential component of his or her sense
        of identity, self-worth and emotional well-being. Accordingly, the
        conditions in which a person works are highly significant in shaping the whole
        compendium of psychological, emotional and physical elements of
        a person’s dignity and self-respect.”


Now that we’ve established the meaning and significance of job satisfaction, we can delve into the consequences of low job satisfaction and strategies for overcoming it.

Stay tuned for part 2.


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    Lindsay Ross, MSW RSW, is a clinical social worker in private practice in Toronto, Ontario.  

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