Today, we recognize International Stress Awareness Day (Nov. 1), by shining a spotlight on the serious impact of workplace dissatisfaction. Read more about how you can land your dream job and rid yourself of a stressful work environment inside.

A recent study reveals that a staggering 93 percent of Americans feel stuck in unfulfilling careers, with only a slim 7 percent experiencing their dream jobs. Searches for phrases like “I hate my job so much” have surged by 110 percent over the past few months, highlighting the emotional toll of career discontent. And this dissatisfaction isn’t just emotional; job-related stress can take a serious toll on physical health, leading to health concerns by the age of 40.

Experts at JobLeads, in collaboration with Health Assured, are calling attention to these issues and offering strategies to help individuals cope and find new directions. According to their findings, job dissatisfaction can lead to serious health red flags, including chronic stress, poor sleep, and even self-esteem issues.

These are a few factors that might indicate you’re burnt out at the job:

Chronic Stress and Burnout

One of the most immediate effects of a bad job is burnout. Constant stress releases hormones that increase heart rate, tighten blood vessels, and reduce immune system function. To break this cycle, experts recommend setting firm work-life boundaries and practicing assertiveness. By learning to say no to overwhelming situations, you protect both your time and mental health.

Poor Sleep Quality

Work-related stress often interferes with sleep, making it difficult to unwind and causing a continuous loop of tiredness and anxiety. Practicing a bedtime routine and reducing screen time can help improve sleep quality and better equip you to handle daily stress.

Declining Self-Esteem

Persistent job dissatisfaction can negatively impact self-esteem, leading to self-doubt and even depression. Building a support network with friends and trusted colleagues can offer encouragement and help reinforce self-worth.

Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms

Stress from an unfulfilling job may also prompt people to adopt unhealthy coping methods, like excessive drinking or binge eating. Instead, prioritize healthy outlets for stress relief, such as exercise or meditation, and invest time in social activities to build positive connections.

Recognizing these challenges, JobLeads provides a five-step guide to finding a career path that’s both fulfilling and aligned with personal values. By exploring passions, setting clear goals, and fostering a supportive network, individuals can pave a way toward professional satisfaction, turning their dream job into a reality.

How to Find Your Dream Job: A 5-Step Guide:

Identify Core Strengths and Interests

Start by evaluating your strengths and passions. Think about activities that make you feel energized and satisfied, and explore tools like Myers-Briggs or CliftonStrengths to identify areas that may align with specific careers. People who utilize their strengths regularly report higher quality of life, engagement, and career satisfaction.

Assess Your Values and Goals

Clarify what matters most in your career, whether it’s flexibility, stability, or advancement. Envision your ideal work environment and identify any aspects from past roles that you’d like to prioritize in future opportunities.

Expand Horizons and Close Skill Gaps

Don’t limit your options to familiar fields. Explore new industries, attend meetups, or volunteer to gain exposure to different areas. Focus on transferable skills like communication and problem-solving, and invest in learning new skills to increase your adaptability.

Build Authentic Relationships

Networking remains essential for job searching. Engage in professional gatherings, industry events, and use LinkedIn to connect meaningfully with others. Around 70% of job openings aren’t advertised, with up to 80% filled through networking.

Set SMART Goals and Take Action

Turn career dreams into reality with SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Breaking larger goals into smaller steps allows you to track progress and stay motivated. Regular evaluation helps ensure you’re on the right path and staying aligned with your career aspirations.

This Stress Awareness Day, consider prioritizing mental well-being and taking proactive steps toward a more fulfilling career. Finding purpose in your work can be transformative for your health, happiness, and sense of fulfillment.