#297: Avoid unhappy good times

Why do so many people stay in jobs they obviously don’t like? Or work in places that stress them out?

Yes, yes, I do know about the job shortage. But that is only part of the reason. You had better understand the other reason before the economy turns around.

The other reason is called cognitive dissonance. You experience cognitive dissonance when you become aware that your attitude is inconsistent with your behavior.

When you admit to being unhappy in your job, your behavior in going to work is inconsistent with your feelings. Inconsistency is a unpleasant. So, if you admit to being unhappy, you will be under pressure from this feeling of dissonance to do something about it.

We all like taking the path of least resistance, which is why it’s easier to change your perceptions about your job than to find a new job. But that’s a trap that will keep you unhappy even when times are good.


I’m James McIntosh at nonsenseatwork.com

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