We spend so much of our lives at work, so it’s important our jobs make us feel challenged, fulfilled and valued. When your role no longer supports your growth or wellbeing, it can quickly affect your motivation, confidence and long-term career satisfaction.
Staying in the wrong job for too long can also jeopardise your progress towards your career goals, making it harder to move forward when the right opportunity does come along.
So how do you know when it’s time to change jobs?
How to know when it’s time to change jobs
You feel stressed and it’s impacting your personal life
Most jobs involve some level of stress from time to time. However, if ongoing stress is beginning to affect your personal life, wellbeing or relationships, it may be a sign that it’s time to consider a new role or work environment.
Maintaining a healthy work–life balance is important. If work is constantly on your mind and you no longer have time or energy for family, friends or activities you enjoy, it may be a sign that a change is needed.
You dread going to work
Do you regularly feel anxious about the week ahead or find yourself dreading going to work? This may be a sign that your current role is no longer the right fit. If that is the case, it might be time to consider a career change.
Your job no longer aligns with your goals
Ideally, your role should support both your short- and long-term career goals. If you’re no longer receiving meaningful professional development or can’t see a clear pathway for progression, it may be a sign that it’s time to consider a new role.
You regularly think about a different job
Do you often find yourself imagining a different role or career path? This may be a sign that your current job is no longer meeting your needs or interests. Persistent thoughts about change can indicate it’s time to explore new opportunities.
You don’t feel challenged
If you’re no longer developing new skills or being challenged in your current role, it may be a sign that it’s time for a change. Before deciding to leave, consider speaking with your manager about taking on new responsibilities or opportunities for career growth. If this doesn’t lead to meaningful change, it may be worth exploring new roles elsewhere.
You feel your ideas and contributions aren’t valued
When you consistently put effort and ideas into your work, it’s natural to want to feel valued in return. If you regularly feel overlooked or unappreciated, it may be a sign that it’s time to consider a change.
Your wages no longer meet the cost of living
If your current income is making it difficult to keep up with the rising cost of living, it may be a sign that it’s time to consider a higher-paid role or opportunities with better financial security.
Recognising the signs that it’s time to move on can be confronting, but it can also be empowering. Once you’ve identified that your current role is no longer serving your wellbeing or long-term career goals, the next step is to take action with clarity and confidence. A well-planned career move starts with presenting your skills, experience and value in the strongest possible way.
Are you looking for a new career? Melbourne Resume Writers can help. We are pleased to offer various services including our resume writing service and LinkedIn profile writing service.
Article References
Indeed (16 December 2025) ‘How To Decide Whether To Change Jobs’, Indeed, accessed 8 January 2026.
Seek (7 March 2024) ‘7 signs it’s time to change jobs’, Seek, accessed 8 January 2026.