5 Signs You’re Ready for a New Career

Ever feel like you're just going through the motions at work, like you're on autopilot? You finish your day, but can't really remember what you even did? Or maybe you're bursting with potential, but your current gig just isn't cutting it anymore. Maybe even little things at work are suddenly driving you nuts, or the thought of another day in your current role fills you with dread. These feelings are super common, and they might just be the kick in the pants you need to think about your next career move.  

Let’s look at five key signs that you're ready to level up. By the way - if you're feeling a bit overwhelmed by the idea of change, no worries – we'll also show you how UNE can help you take that leap with confidence. 

1. You’re Running on Autopilot 

Ever have that feeling where someone asks about your day, and you totally draw a blank? It's like your brain took a vacation. As we get better at our jobs, it's easy to get into a routine, and sometimes that routine can just get…boring. You don't have to be a brain surgeon to feel fulfilled at work, but you do have to be engaged. If you feel like you're just going through the motions, it's a sign you need a new challenge. Try shadowing a colleague in a different department, looking into professional development opportunities, or talking to your manager about taking on more responsibility. 

2. Your Best Skills Are Underutilized 

As you gain experience, you might discover hidden talents or interests that your current role just doesn't use. Maybe you started in marketing, but you're secretly a strategy whiz. Or perhaps you discovered you love training people while onboarding a new team member. Feeling underutilized, especially if you're in a junior role, can be seriously frustrating. It's like wearing your favourite sweater that's suddenly too small – it just doesn't fit anymore. Experience is great, but sometimes extra qualifications can really show off your skills and open new doors. 

3. The Small Stuff Makes You Snap 

Remember when you first started your job? Little annoyances, like a messy kitchen in the breakroom, were no big deal. But now? A misplaced coffee mug can send you into a rage spiral. If tiny workplace irritations are suddenly getting on your last nerve, it's a red flag. Same goes if you dread seeing a colleague's name pop up in your chat window, or the office foosball tournament fills you with rage instead of fun. Time for a change. 

4. Your Manager Has Hit a Wall 

You've been proactive and talked to your manager about growing your role and taking on new challenges. But they've hit a wall. Maybe there's a hiring freeze, projects are slow, or they just don't have anything to give you. This can be super frustrating, especially when you're itching to grow. It might be a sign that your current role has run its course for you. 

5. You’re Procrastinating with Career Research 

A little career window-shopping is totally normal. Browsing job boards and reading articles about career advice can be helpful for understanding the market and what you want. But if you find yourself spending way more time researching than actually doing, it's a sign you're ready to move beyond the planning stage. All those saved articles and YouTube videos are basically screaming: it's time to take the next step. 

Ready to Take the Next Step? UNE Can Help. 

Thinking about your next move can be exciting, but also, let's be real, a little scary. You're at that point in life where things are getting real, and you want to make sure you're headed in the right direction. Whether you're looking to specialize, learn new skills, or completely switch gears, UNE can help you get there. They've been doing online education for ages (over 70 years!), and they're consistently rated super high for student experience.  

So, if you're ready to stop just thinking about your next career step and actually take it, check out UNE today and start your journey towards a more fulfilling career. You got this!