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How to improve your work life without quitting your job

By Ben Madden
Ben Madden

There aren’t many worse things than not enjoying your work life, especially when you’re not in a position to quit your current job. However, not all is lost if that’s the case for you!

We’ve put together some tips to help you if you’re feeling lost in your professional life, so you can make positive changes both at work, and in other aspects of your life.

Read on to learn more about how you can improve your work life without needing to leave your current workplace!

How to improve your work life without quitting

For many people, quitting their current role isn’t an option. Your field may be extremely competitive, or your finances may not be in a position where you can afford to potentially go without work for an extended period.

If you’re currently feeling unsatisfied at work, and want to improve things before they spiral further, then we’re here to help. We’ve put together a few ways that you can improve your work life, without needing to quit your current role.

Challenge yourself in the workplace

Feeling like you’re not pushing yourself further at work, or have certain skills that you don’t feel are being properly utilised? Speaking to a trusted member of the management team can help. Flagging that you’re looking to diversify your skillset can help break up the monotony of your work life, as well as giving you the motivation to upskill.

Establish a daily routine

It can be easy to feel like you’re losing control in the workplace – so having a routine when you get to work each day can be a much-needed change of pace. Whether it’s stopping to have a conversation with your favourite co-worker, grabbing a coffee at a nearby café before you get to work, or even going for a 10-minute walk before stepping into the office, knowing that you have set things you can do to prepare yourself for the workday ahead can set a positive tone for the time you’re spending at work.

Recognise when you need a break

Professional burnout is real, and if you’re in a position to do so, taking leave can help you reset when you’re feeling like you’re stuck in a rut. Knowing what signs to look for when you’re burnt out is important. If you’re constantly feeling exhausted, more emotional and you’re losing focus in various aspects of your life, then it’s time to give yourself a break.

Upskill within your field

Not satisfied with your position on the career ladder? Studying is a great solution, and online courses mean you can study while continuing to work. Whether you’re looking to study within your industry, or something that’s adjacent, gaining an extra nationally recognised qualification from an education provider (for example, Upskilled provides a range of courses in a range of industries) can help you make the career move you’ve been thinking about for a while.

What to do when you hate your job and you can't quit

Need the motivation to keep going in your job? You’re not alone, and we’ve put together some ways to re-shape the way you see your career. Hating your job doesn’t have to be permanent – instead, there are different ways you can improve various aspects of your life, so you feel more positive about your place in the professional world.

Plan, plan, plan

Failing to plan is planning to fail – it’s a cliché, but it’s true. Is your current role an unpleasant part of a bigger plan? Working out where it sits in a grander plan (for example, you’re working in the role to build up experience in your field) will help you deal with things when they’re particularly bad, because it’s a reminder that things won’t stay the same forever.

If you do find yourself wanting to quit, and nothing will change your mind, then it’s also important to have a range of plans depending on what’s required from you to resign. In any industry, references are an important part of securing future work – so you don’t want to quit your job without damaging your reputation (and you can learn more about how to quit gracefully here).

Express your feelings

couple talking to each other

Sometimes, humans need to vent. It’s a natural part of life. However, when it comes to work, a lot of us feel like we have to bottle things up – which can lead to things going up in smoke down the line. 

Instead, talking to a trusted friend/family member about your experiences at work can help you process them with your community, as well as put things into perspective. You might be surprised at what valuable advice you get from those around you.

Improve your well-being elsewhere

If you’re unable to change your work situation for whatever reason, finding things you enjoy elsewhere can help to put things into perspective. It’s different for everyone, but embracing a new hobby can be a great way to remind yourself that work is just a part of your life, especially when your professional endeavours can get overwhelming.

Looking to improve your work life by studying? Upskilled can help.

Upskilled provides an extensive range of online courses to help you add to your skill set or improve your confidence in different areas of your current role.

Want to speak to someone about how you can improve your career prospects? Reach out to Upskilled’s education consultants on 1300 009 924 to speak to someone about what improvements you can be making in your work life!

Ben Madden
Ben Madden Ben Madden is a Melbourne-based writer, who loves all things music and sport. He’s a long-time and long-suffering Essendon supporter, and if you’re looking for any music recommendations, he’s your guy.