‘You might have to work on your self image’
QI’m a 23-year-old working professional. I'm highly dissatisfied with my job. I have been here for four years now but haven’t been promoted as yet. I want to quit but there are no good jobs available in the market. I’m not comfortable talking to my boss about it because I feel it’ll sound needy. I’m confused. Should I just quit and look for other options instead of talking to my superiors? What if they refuse? Please help.
Understand that work need not become your whole purpose of life. One can find a deeper meaning and satisfaction of their life not just through work but in a relationship or a hobby. Take some time for yourself rather than quit your work and reflect on — what you are passionate about? What skills do you have that come naturally to you? What cause do you believe in that can you give your life for? Finally what is it that you have that people are willing to pay you for?
Finding one’s purpose or the reason why you wake up every morning is a search that involves understanding your skills, self image and personality as well as specialised knowledge in an area? How do you make sense of yourself when you prefer to quit and look for options rather than take responsibility and change your attitude? Have you wondered about your discomfort in handling conflict? Or fear of being rejected by your seniors? Is your inner critic telling you that you are needy and selfish?
You might have to work on self image. That will keep you rooted and focused on what is important throughout your life. You could take up career advice and map your personality with your work style that will help you to be motivated and enjoy the work you choose to do. Good luck! — This query has been answered by Dr N. Sucharita PhD, from Roshni Counselling Centre, Hyderabad 040-6666 1117/18 Write to us at feedback.age@gmail.com with “expert advice” in the subject line.