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Dear Dr. Faith,

I've been with my organization for over 20 years and have risen to a high level of leadership. But I'm bored. I want more from my job. There are too many meaningless meetings and politics to deal with. We're spinning our wheels, jumping from project to project, and going nowhere FAST. I'm just going through the motions because I don't think anything will change. I'd like to leave but I've got too much invested in my current situation. How can I keep my sanity and make a meaningful contribution despite the fear and chaos around me?

Dear Frustrated and Bored,

Many leaders are asking the same question you are asking. Discontent is an epidemic! 

Leaving is not the only solution. Organizations need capable leaders. You've risen to the top for a reason. 

Ask yourself: Are you dissatisfied because you're waiting for someone else to change? 

Often we're frustrated because we want someone to champion our cause. We're waiting for the boss to create a vision; or for employees to wise up and see what really needs to be done. We're want someone else to say; "This doesn't make sense." or "We're not making progress." "Here's what we need to do. Let's make this happen!" 

It's risky to take initiative, tell the truth and rock the boat. So we sit with our discontent and feel powerless. 

To take action, decide how long you will commit to your current job. If it's less than six months, start looking for a new job immediately. 

If you're going to stay, make a commitment to yourself: "I commit to being in this organization for this _____period of time (1 year, 2 years, 5 years, 10 years)." Name a specific date that is the earliest date you will leave. Work within this time frame and engage by taking these steps: 

1. Commit to ‘being present' in your current job. This means admitting what you don't like and advocating for changes you believe are important. 

2. Decide what you want by asking yourself:

Ø What do I really want to be different in my organization, in my job?

Ø What problems am I working around? What needs to be fixed? What am I tolerating, versus addressing head on?

Ø What do I wish was happening?

Ø What specifically do I want to be different? In my department? Division? Organization? 

Be idealistic. Identify concrete changes you want to see happen. Don't worry about HOW these changes are going to be made or whether you can accomplish them. Simply list what you want. 

2. Now select one change you are passion about achieving. Identify a project, or a way of working that you believe is important. Write down exactly what you think needs to happen. Be specific. Again, don't worry about whether the change is "doable." Focus on whether you are passionate about this issue. 

3. Address your fears.

Ask yourself; "If I address this challenge, what's the best thing that could happen? What is the worst thing that could happen? What fears are keeping me from speaking up and taking action? How can I challenge myself to grow and take action to improve this situation? 

4. Commit to action.

Ask yourself; "What action am I willing to take to bring about this change? Who else wants this change to happen? How can I enlist their support? Who will encourage me as I champion this idea? 

If you are unwilling to do anything about the problem, stop ruminate. Let it go. 

5. Enjoy the moment

Whether you succeed with the change or not, you'll feel better the minute you tell yourself the truth, move past "should's, ought to's, and can't do's" - and take action. 

6. Finally, let go of perfectionism. Stay focused on what's important, learn from your mistakes, and relish small accomplishments. 

Remember, happiness and job satisfaction are only a decision away. It's about deciding whether you're willing to learn and grow, speak up about what's important to you, challenge the status quo, take risks, and partner with others. The minute you say "yes" and step forward, you stop treading water and start contributing where ever you go! 

Dear Dr. Faith,

Wondering

Dear Wondering,

Helpful Quotes

What we are most afraid of is our own magnificence.

We need to take the "ish" - out of "Selfish."

There is nothing to fear but fear itself!" President Roosevelt

Good questions are the midwife of solutions.