Without being asked Freddie decorated the office, and attempted to foster the Christmas spirit among coworkers. There were decorations everywhere but her cheerful  yet quelled spirit responded to the lack of recognition. The following year she refused to participate or promote the Christmas spirit the following year. Freddie is looking considering leaving without job leads.

John had talked to his wife about leaving his IT Project Management position because  of the stress and strife faced daily. It had taken a toll on his health to the point his wife a professional counselor suggested he hand in his resignation sooner than later. John’s boss took exception to his two week resignation and escorted off the premises.

Appreciated? NOT!

Everyone’s lack of appreciation threshold of intolerance is different. Everyone wants to be appreciated and understood. When neither occurs, quitting is the next step unless there is radical gratitude being offered by supervisors, managers, or anyone in authority. Recent studies and observations suggest that people are starting to make career changes. Some of my recent and former clients are overwhelmed from work resulting from long-time unfulfilled vacancies. They feel, well, under appreciated.

I can see this year as the fed up will move out and start more business. Others will seek out another shot of audacity and venture out without having another gig without preparation or strategy. Those of you who know better should opt out for planning your exit.

Do you fear change?

This economy has caused many employed to fear change for several years. Piled on responsibilities often gone unnoticed, without gratitude and compensation.

A recent article, Feeling Chronically Unappreciated Can Lead to Burnout, cited the following burnout signs:

• Every day is a bad day
• Caring seems like a total waste of energy
• You’re exhausted
• Most of your time at work is spent on tasks either boring or overwhelming
• You feel nothing you do makes a difference

Last spring, USA Today reported that employees quitting their current position outnumbered those fired. One could make the case that this is good for our economy, and inspire a plethora of bold job seekers to venture. This would cause unemployment to spike but lead to happily employed job seekers.

This is the year of the unappreciated job seekers!

Not that you should have a personal parade or a drink, but this will serve some well. Job seekers with fewer skills face challenges because of the lack of job skills currently possessed. I want to suggest the following to you get on track:

1) Before quitting, assess the relevancy of your skills

2) Take the emotion out of your decision

3) Where is your anger placed? People (your boss is a person)? The job duties? The process?

4) Does your frustration include the lack of abilities you demonstrate or the lack of ability?

Wrestle with  these questions and discuss them with someone  you trust possessing good career judgment. I’m available to help you and feel free to unload your concerns and comments below.