Career Advice to cope with a job you hate

Last week a reporter from Australia emailed me, getting background for an article about careers. As it turned out, the questions related directly to my ebook on "Ten things to do when you really, really hate your job." http://www.cathygoodwin.com/hatejob.html An example of the career advice I shared: Q. How do we ‘readjust’ our attitude to be able to cope in a job we don’t like? My answer: You can't force yourself by saying, "I have to like this job. I have to like this job." Instead, think of your job as a vehicle you can use to move to your next job. What can you use: Does your company offer training and education programs? Are you improving your resume every week or at least every month? Are you learning new skills? Another technique is to regard your job as a day job. Be careful to do enough so you won't get fired. But do the minimum and use your energy to work towards your real dream. Often you need to work with a consultant or coach to avoid getting caught up in the day job. It's familiar. You get a check every week. You're in a comfort zone. Let's face it: Cushy day jobs can be hazardous to your career. Believe me: I know!

What's Special About Midlife Career Change?

When reviewing career change books, I sometimes add the comment, 'This book seems more appropriate for 20-somethings or 30-somethings. But midlife career changers will resist." (1) You need different networking systems. A Young Career Changer (YCC) can ask for informational interviews. He can ask to shadow someone for a day or two. But if you're in your 40's or 50's, managers may resist opening their doors to someone who's a peer, perhaps someone who's been working elsewhere. When I taught live MBA marketing, my "older" students had trouble getting interviews for projects. "Two gray-haired men? They thought the IRS had come to call," said one student. For the record, I offered to create a special project for them, but they declined. They'd caught the fire! (2) You're un-learning a style of professionalism. As I like to say: Corporate life is like professional football. Carreer change is like playground basketball. A whole different set of moves. You can do it, once you realize what's going on. (3) Life happens. I'm not typical: my parents are gone and my next-of-kin has fur and paws. Many 40-plus career changers have teenagers, boomerang kids, aging parents and a whole lot more. Some of my clients experience health concerns, whether seeking additional medical screenings or dealing with symptoms. (4) Your day job is more demanding. By mid-career you've probably moved up the corporate ladder and you have more responsibilities. As an executive or professional you may have more flexibility but you work longer hours. And your family becomes more important. (5) Your comfort zone has gotten broader and deeper. What's a lateral move to a YCC may be a giant leap backward at mid-career. I encourage clients to consider the consquences of, say, giving up a large home for a small apartment. Some care a lot. Some barely notice -- they're too excited about the future. Success depends on feeling proud and happy, genuinely, authentically. Anything else gets in the way. Please leave a coomment for me!