A recent survey claimed that job dissatisfaction among workers is high and increasing. The phenomenon is so prevalent that it encompasses a wide range of age groups and income brackets. It reported that approximately half of them are satisfied, while the other half is not. In recent years, overall satisfaction rates have sharply declined, with about 40 to 50 percent of workers saying they will change their line of work if there is a better opportunity.

How is this happening and why? We must understand that job satisfaction has two different aspects. The first one is “intrinsic job satisfaction.” This occurs when workers consider only the kind of work they do and their whole job position. The second is “extrinsic job satisfaction.” This occurs when workers take all aspects of their working conditions, including the salaries and benefits received, as well as their relationships with co-workers and the supervisor. These two are different, but interrelated. If the dissatisfaction is due to the kind of work, it is called “intrinsic,” but if it is due to work conditions, it is “extrinsic.”

In this case, different aspects call for different solutions. If the kind of work you are doing increases your dissatisfaction, maybe you must consider changing your career. But if the conditions of work dissatisfy you more and more, the most feasible solution is to negotiate with your supervisors and co-workers. You may also consider changing companies, but stay within the same line of industry.

What do you expect to get from your job? Is it money, fame, or independence? Why are they important to you? Sizing up job satisfaction actually means evaluating your job expectations. This involves the things that people are looking for or require from a specific job position. This is reason why there are some people who have higher expectations compared to others.

Is there anything that dissatisfied workers can do to stop this problem? To maximize job satisfaction, experts suggest the following:

First, know what is important to you. It means being clear about what you really want and how you want to get it. Examine your values. Put your thoughts in proper perspective.

Second, identify occupations that fit you right. It means acquiring the correct information about jobs that correspond to your personality.

Third, consult a professional career coach. If you are confused on which path to take, you may need to talk to somebody who knows about what you are going through at present.

Fourth, resolve your dissatisfaction. Do not allow depression, anxiety, worry, tension, and interpersonal problems haunt you for so long because these may lead to problems such as job loss, accidents, or mental illness. Immediately but patiently look for a solution to your unhappiness at the workplace.