8 Glaring Signs Your Job Isn’t Meant for You: A Message for Today’s Leaders
As a leader, you carry the weight of your team, projects, and organization—and often, it feels like there’s no room left to carry yourself. Leadership roles are rewarding, but they can also be draining, especially in a toxic work environment. If you’re finding it hard to shake off the persistent feeling of burnout, it might be time to ask yourself: Is this job still the right fit for me?
Here are eight glaring signs that your current role might be doing more harm than good, along with actionable steps to take as you contemplate your next move.
1. You Dread Going to Work Every Day
What was once a role that excited you now fills you with a sense of dread every Sunday night. If you find yourself constantly battling anxiety at the thought of starting another workweek, this could be a major red flag that your job is no longer aligned with your values or goals.
What to Do: Reflect on what’s causing this dread. Is it the workload? The culture? Or a mismatch between your skills and responsibilities? Journaling or speaking with a coach can help you uncover the root cause.
2. Your Work Environment Feels Toxic
A toxic workplace often breeds distrust, favoritism, lack of transparency, or even harassment. As a leader, you might find yourself either absorbing the negativity or feeling powerless to change it. Either way, toxicity drains your energy and undermines your effectiveness.
What to Do: Document specific instances of toxicity and, if possible, address them with HR or upper management. If change isn’t feasible, start planning your exit strategy.
3. You’re Constantly Overworked but Underappreciated
Do you feel like you’re doing the job of three people while receiving little to no recognition? Chronic overwork without acknowledgment can lead to resentment and burnout—two things that no leader can sustain long-term.
What to Do: Have a candid conversation with your supervisor about workload and boundaries. Set clear limits and advocate for additional resources.
4. You No Longer Feel Fulfilled
Leadership positions should challenge and inspire you. If your work feels meaningless or like you’re just going through the motions, it’s a strong indication that this role no longer aligns with your passions or career aspirations.
What to Do: Revisit your "why." Why did you choose this role in the first place? If your purpose has evolved, consider how you can align your career with your current values.
5. Your Physical and Mental Health Are Suffering
Chronic stress, insomnia, frequent illnesses, or feelings of depression are all signs that your job might be taking a toll on your well-being. No role—no matter how prestigious—is worth sacrificing your health.
What to Do: Prioritize self-care. Schedule time for therapy, exercise, and rest. If possible, take a mental health day to recalibrate.
6. You Feel Stuck, with No Room for Growth
As a leader, you should be continuously evolving. If your role no longer offers opportunities to learn, grow, or advance, it’s likely stifling your potential.
What to Do: Identify skills or areas you’d like to develop. Seek out mentorship, training programs, or external opportunities that align with your goals.
7. Your Values Are Misaligned with the Organization’s
Perhaps you value collaboration, but your company rewards cutthroat competition. Or maybe you prioritize innovation, but the organization resists change. Value misalignment can create deep dissatisfaction and make it difficult to lead authentically.
What to Do: Reflect on what values matter most to you. If there’s no alignment, it may be time to explore opportunities that resonate with your principles.
8. You’re Fantasizing About Quitting… All the Time
Occasional frustration is normal, but if you’re spending significant time daydreaming about quitting—or worse, fantasizing about drastic ways to escape your job—it’s a clear sign something needs to change.
What to Do: Start building a plan. Update your resume, reconnect with your network, and research potential roles that excite you.
What You Can Do in the Meantime
While you’re figuring out your next steps, here are some practical strategies to help you manage your current situation:
Set Boundaries: Clearly define your work hours and stick to them. Protect your personal time.
Delegate: As a leader, it’s okay to lean on your team. Trust others to take ownership of tasks.
Find Small Wins: Identify areas where you can make an immediate impact or find satisfaction, even in small doses.
Practice Gratitude: Focus on what you’re grateful for in your role, whether it’s a supportive colleague or a valuable lesson learned.
Seek Support: Join a professional network, hire a career coach, or confide in a trusted friend who can help you navigate this challenging period.
The Bottom Line
You don’t have to stay in a role that drains your energy, stifles your growth, or undermines your health. Recognizing the signs is the first step to taking control of your career and well-being. Remember, making a change doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it means you’re choosing to prioritize yourself, your values, and your future.
If you’re ready to explore what’s next, start taking small steps today. Your dream role—one where you can lead authentically and thrive—is waiting for you.
The Strategic Solution
Are you struggling to set boundaries, delegate effectively, or find fulfillment in your current role? You're not alone—and you don't have to navigate these challenges on your own. At Morgan Carey Consulting Solutions (MCCS), we offer personalized Thrive Coaching Sessions designed to help professionals like you regain control, protect your personal time, and rediscover joy in your career. Whether you’re looking to set boundaries, build leadership confidence, or explore your next steps, we’re here to guide you.
Ready to take the next step? Schedule your Thrive Coaching Session today and start building the career (and life) you deserve. Let’s work together to turn these small steps into a big transformation.
