Tips from Linda Parisi submitted by Diana Servinskas of Servinskas Associates
You spend a major part of your day - and your life - at work so it's important to be happy in what you do. If not, then you need to seriously consider a new job, preferably one in an organization that brings out the best in you. If you are not sure whether you should stay or go, consider the following:
1. Don't define yourself by your job alone - integrate life and work. You never know if there's downsizing around the corner!
2. Keep up your skills: take classes, learn something new, be the novice in something on a regular basis to keep stretching yourself.
3. In a difficult work situation, try adjusting your attitude. Look for the good or appreciate something in your situation, and if you can't, maybe it's time for a job change. But don't leave until you have found another!
4. Determine your own value and learn how to promote yourself. Not everyone is going to appreciate you in the same way.
Finally, you need to stay abreast of trends in your profession. Even if you are happy in your present position, it never hurts to make friends with a good recruiter in your field. Then, every two years or so, ask them to help you assess your skills and strengths. With that knowledge, you will be able to evaluate whether the career path you've chosen is rewarding you sufficiently.