In recent years, the concept of work/life balance and transitioning into roles that preserve one’s mental health have been increasing in popularity and significance in a candidate and employee-driven job market.
In my recent Forbes article, “10 Low Stress, Easy Jobs That Pay Well In 2023”, which lists the role of art director as being low-stress, a commentator reached out to me directly and noted that from his extensive experience within the entertainment industry, an art director’s job is anything but easy and low-stress. He pointed out the demands of the role including late night working, unregulated hours, and tight deadlines for big budget productions.
It is important to note however, that a demanding job does not automatically translate into it being stressful.
“Stress” indicates the negative toll that one’s job takes on their mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing; whereas “demanding” simply indicates that the role requires more critical thinking and effort, is fast-paced, and often time-consuming. Consequently, what one might perceive as stressful could be fairly easy and manageable for another working the same job.
There are a variety of influences that influence our perception of stress in a role, therefore it is essential to weigh all of them into consideration when deciding to leave your current job or if seeking a new role:
Workplace culture. If your current or potential employer fosters a toxic culture where you feel unsupported, discriminated, harassed, or abused in the workplace, or you have uncertainty about your standing and job stability, this can result in a direct correlation to increased stress levels and consequently, your mental health.
Personal life. Sometimes the circumstances in our personal lives, particularly major life disruptions such as a divorce, health struggles, or trouble with family relationships, inhibit our ability to enjoy our work. These personal circumstances compound undue pressure that negatively impacts our work performance, thereby resulting in stress.
Recognition and reward. A Socialcast study uncovered that 69% of employees would work harder if celebrated and praised more at work. If you are recognized and acknowledged for your hard work it will have an enormous impact on lessening your stress levels in any job, despite its demands, and increasing your positivity in the workplace.
Five factors to consider
Here are five criteria to apply when assessing if a job is the right one for you and if it will promote your wellbeing:
Passion and interest
Virgin boss and billionaire Richard Branson is famously quoted as saying, “If you aren’t having fun, you are doing it wrong. If you feel like getting up in the morning to work on your business is a chore, then it’s time to try something else.”
If the idea of a career in event management excites and inspires you, then regardless of how demanding the role is, you would never wish to leave that career because that is where your passion lies.
You therefore need to undertake some introspection and ask yourself, “Is my current role providing me with fulfilment and satisfaction? Is this something I am truly passionate about? Or am I working here merely to survive?”
Compensation package
Undoubtedly, if you are underpaid in your role because your employer does not appreciate your market value or is slashing budgets, your enthusiasm for your job will dwindle and it will become stressful.
Especially is this true now more than ever, with the increasing costs of living, where many employees are compelled to work twice as hard, taking on other gigs and jobs just to survive.
If you have researched the standard market pay for someone of your qualifications and length of experience and believe that your salary is subpar, you should seriously consider switching employers.
Work/life balance
Does your current or prospective job permit you to work in a way that is conducive to high performance? Does your employer pay due consideration to your overall wellbeing and provide you with ample time to spend with loved ones and in rejuvenating yourself?
If you’re cramming every waking hour into work, taking your company laptop with you on vacation or working the weekends habitually when your actual contract stipulates Monday to Friday, it’s time to reconsider your current role and look elsewhere.
Job security
Industries that are more prone to experience setbacks and layoffs such as talent acquisition/recruitment, and wholesale and retail, may result in more stress because you are at greater risk of unemployment, and will always be on edge and uncertain about your career future. Therefore it is essential to establish a solid footing when planning your next career move and weigh up all options carefully.
Career advancement opportunities
Does your current or anticipated role (or employer) afford career growth and development? Will you be able to move vertically after a period instead of remaining on the same level and moving sideways? Can you expect to have opportunities to build and flex your skill set?
These are some questions you must always consider when evaluating a new or existing role, to prevent stagnation and job boredom.
In addition to the above, factors including employer-led support structures and individual tolerance levels, can influence how “easy” a job really is. For example, what you might have had high energy expenditure for when you were younger and at the cusp of your career, would cause sheer burnout in your mid-to-late career.
Ultimately, an “easy” job is subjective. While some jobs may be less demanding, every profession is unique and has its own set of attractions and challenges. In some instances, the drawbacks may outweigh the benefits. However, it is down to you, whether actively searching for a job or not, to evaluate contributing factors including career goals, work/life balance, and employer support and recognition, and be the architect of your own career future.
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