Dead-End Job? Warning Signs that You're in the Wrong Job

There's nothing worse that hating your job.  You dread Monday mornings.  You drag into the office late.  You avoid socializing with your co-workers.  But what if you actually like certain aspects of your job?  What if things aren't so cut and dry?  How can you tell if you're putting energy into a job (and a career) that won't satisfy you for the rest of your life?  How can you tell if there's something better out there for you?  Well, here are a few warning signs that, even if you're enjoying certain parts of your workday, you'll ultimately be better off going in another direction:

1.  You rationalize your misery.  Most people "make the best" of their jobs for practical reasons: They need the extra money.  They think they have to pay their dues before they can move on to a fulfilling career.  They believe disliking their job is just part of life.  But making excuses for leading a so-so life (even if it's not that bad) will always leave a void in your heart.   

2.  You aren't challenged for fulfilled.  Sure, you may be interested or even fascinated with certain parts of your job.  But if you don't feel like you're growing in new ways, or contributing anything worthwhile to the world, you may find yourself wondering what the point is of all your hard work. 

3.  You daydream about what you'd really like to do with your life.  Do you have a passion that you just can't bury?  Do you secretly wish you could do surf tours in Costa Rica?  Or open a Bed & Breakfast in Vermont?  Most people have a vision for what their life would look like, if it weren't for all of those pesky adult responsibilities.  If you find yourself thinking that there's something better out there, there just might be...