I don’t know why but it seems that along with recession comes the unexplainable hatred for 9-5 jobs. Many have taken the plunge, finally donating those corporate suits for comfortable casual wear as well as choosing a more flexible work schedule over the seemingly dead-locked office routine. I must admit, running your own business from home may cut almost half of your working hours, leaving more time for other endeavors which are otherwise not possible. There are weeks when you just work 20 hours and still earn the same amount of money as you would when maintaining an office job. Lucky are those who have the determination and capability to have it their way, but what about those who are not lucky enough to be able to leave their dreadful jobs?..
I have heard stories from my senior friends, old enough for retirement but not financially ready to give up work yet. As much as possible, I don’t share too much of my “newfound joy” as I see pain and hurt in their eyes when I do. I know, they wish to someday be able to live a liberated life but I also do understand what holds them back. I just wish it will be easier for them.
So what makes seniors hate their jobs? According to my experience—and to my friends’ as well, there are many varying factors to one’s satisfaction at work. Bottomline is, a team can never be as efficient and effective if there’s one unsatisfied teammate. For business owners out there, it is very important to monitor your workers’ level of satisfaction as it can directly affect their level of competency. This usually occurs when someone new joins your staff or some friction has been started.
Seniors find it boring if their work falls into a routine, something that they do on hourly basis. It is easy to hate a job that poses no challenge no matter how comfortable and easy the job may be. If there is no variety, seniors are bound to hate it sooner or later. On the other hand, an overly demanding job tends to burn workers out. Heavy workload with lots of deadlines is not only physically taxing but also mentally and emotionally draining—a factor that will push a worker to hate his job.
Unrewarding jobs are the most arduous to do. These jobs include dead-end positions without a promotion in sight, or when you work hard and still not get recognized for it. The same goes for jobs that are not really in line with your interests.
Working environment is important as well. If your boss is a perfectionist and nothing you do seems to hit the spot or if he is mean and yells at you, one can fully understand why you hate your job. It is also advisable to have a healthy working atmosphere in the office so it would be easier for you to come to work everyday.