Ever feel like you’re stuck in a work rut, daydreaming about greener pastures? We often focus on the negatives of our jobs – the demanding boss, the tedious tasks, the long hours. Hold your horses! Before you start updating your CV, let’s take a closer look at your current job.  What if your current job is actually better than you think? What if it’s secretly awesome?

Here are eight signs that could reveal your job is actually, kind of, great:

• You’re a learning machine: Does your job feel like a never-ending brain workout? Are you constantly picking up new skills, knowledge, and insights? If your workplace is like a professional playground, full of opportunities to learn and grow, that’s a keeper!

• Your work makes a real difference: Can you see the direct impact of your efforts? Whether it’s helping customers, solving problems, or contributing to the company’s success, knowing your work matters is incredibly fulfilling. Feeling like you’re making a positive difference in the world is a major perk!

• You’re the captain of your own ship: Do you have the freedom and flexibility to manage your own work? Are you trusted to make decisions, take initiative, and solve problems independently? Autonomy can be a powerful motivator and lead to a greater sense of ownership and job satisfaction.

• Your colleagues are your work family: Do you genuinely enjoy the company of your coworkers? Do you feel supported, respected, and valued by your team? A positive and collaborative work environment can make even the most challenging days enjoyable.

• Your company’s values align with yours: Does your company prioritise work-life balance, social responsibility, diversity, or other values that resonate with you? When your personal values align with your company’s culture, it fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, making your work feel more meaningful.

• Your hard work doesn’t go unnoticed: Are you regularly recognised and appreciated for your contributions? Do you receive feedback, praise, and opportunities for advancement? Feeling valued is crucial for job satisfaction and can boost your confidence and motivation.

• You have opportunities for advancement and Growth: Does your company offer clear paths for career progression and development? Are you encouraged to set goals, take on new challenges, and expand your responsibilities? A workplace that invests in your future and provides opportunities for growth is a place where you can thrive. Whether it’s through promotions, leadership training, or skill development programs, knowing that you have a future within the company can be incredibly motivating.

• You wear your company badge with pride: Do you genuinely enjoy what you do and feel proud to be associated with your company? Passion and enthusiasm for your work are infectious and can make even the most mundane tasks enjoyable. If you’re excited about the company’s mission and your role in it, that’s a great sign!

If several of these signs ring true, congrats! Your job might be better than you realise, it may even be a secretly awesome job. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind and overlook the positive aspects of our work. So sure – you might not have chef-prepared lunches or endless free merch, but by taking a closer look and appreciating what truly matters, we can transform our perspective and find greater satisfaction in our current roles.

Remember, the perfect role doesn’t exist, but a secretly awesome job might be closer than you think.

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