Member-only story
I Stayed in a Job I Hated for Years
I was stuck at an unfulfilling job but felt unable to leave due to family pressures
The clock reads 3 PM. I’m trying to concentrate on an email, but my mind keeps wandering. I pick up my phone and surreptitiously check Facebook. After scrolling for a few minutes, I remember that I’m still at my work desk, and put my phone back down.
I managed to concentrate for a few more minutes. I glance at the clock again. 3:07 PM. I suddenly feel the urge to use the bathroom so I get up again. On the way back, I take the long route and stare out the window for a few minutes.
I get back to my desk and unlock my computer. 3:21 PM.
Time is barely crawling by. I have another hour and a half before I can get out of here.
This is how most days went for me. I knew something needed to change.
I had been at my job for three years. At that point, I was trying to figure out my next step. Should I try for a promotion? Or get a job at a different company? Should I quit and go to graduate school?
Each option had its downsides. Promotions were slow at the company and I was told by my boss that I may need to wait several years before I would be promoted. Other companies did seem more appealing, but the…
