We all knew something was not quite right but were unsure of where to direct our focus and emotions. Our global pandemic has forced what was already present in people’s lives to the surface – “I am not happy in my work-life experience!” The Mental Health America group reports a 370% increase in depression and anxiety since January 2020. Life feels like a pressure cooker!

The combination of many factors has pushed forward the notion for many people, “Should I consider a new career? Writer and Director for International Business Development at People Keys Dr. Brad Smith, has put together 10 warning signs when you should consider a new career. Here are the 10 signs you are ready for a career change now:

1. You are furloughed, either temporarily or permanently. It doesn’t get any more clear or real than this. You need a new way of making income.
2. You have serious doubts about your current position, company, or long-term financial outlook. Start something on the side now you enjoy that you can eventually move into full time.
3. You feel physically or mentally drained most of the time.
4. You wake up in the night or in the morning with anxiety or worries over your job.
5. You are losing self-esteem and think less of yourself. Chances are, it really isn’t you, but being in a bad place or working for someone who is not supportive leads you to feel less confident in yourself. It’s time for a change.
6. You have said things to yourself, such as, “If it wasn’t for the money I would already be gone.” You are ready for a change.
7. You are self-medicating or finding other ways to cover your unhappiness.
8. You feel like a split personality, one at home and one at work, or while you are performing your job duties. You don’t feel the two align, ever!
9. You have lost all excitement about your work or profession.
10. You have read this article up to this point. Unless you are doing it for educational purposes, you probably wouldn’t be reading this unless you knew it was time.

Shepherds Advantage provides Servant Leadership that helps people close the gap between where they are and where they want to be. Shepherds Advantage closes that gap by providing Leadership Development, Keynote Speaking, and Executive Coaching. Shepherdsadvantage@gmail.com

Note: Dr. Brad Smith was the genesis of this article