What does Independence Day mean to YOU? If you’re stuck in a bad job, you don’t have to stretch very hard to make the connection between your career and the American colonists’ conflict with England’s King George III. You may earn a meager salary at a job you hate or get taken advantage of at the office. Why put up with it? If this sounds like you, then you might want to start thinking about changing your career. In commemoration of Independence Day, we proclaim–free yourself from a bad job!

You might be thinking: why should I make a career switch in this tough economy? First of all, it’s never too late to go back to school or switch careers. Instead of focusing on the negative state of the economy, you should view this recession as an opportunity to start fresh. Yes, you might have to start at an entry-level position, but you will be able to work your way up the corporate ladder with a little hard work and persistence. After all, the other option—continuing to work at a job that makes you miserable—isn’t so attractive!

Here are some steps that you can take to find a job that you will love:

Step #1 – find out what you dislike about your current job

What do you hate about your job—your boss, your co-workers, or the work itself? Once you identify what you don’t like about your position, you will be able to figure out what type of work environment best suits your personality. You may discover that you enjoy doing the work, but just don’t like WHERE you work!

Step #2 – make a list of the things you love

If you have found that you’re unhappy with your job responsibilities, it’s a big sign that you’re in the wrong industry. Think about some courses you’ve taken in school that have interested you. Did you enjoy learning about history, literature, or even phys ed? These are all important clues that will lead you to a better understanding of what career path to pursue.

Step #3 – consider a lateral career move

Many people don’t realize that they don’t have to completely start over when switching careers! For example, if you currently work in the business industry and are looking to switch over to the medical field, you could opt for a career in health care management, a position that allows you to use your business skills by managing a health care facility. This way, you aren’t doomed into starting at the bottom and earning an entry-level salary!

Step #4 – figure out what you need to achieve your goals

Do you need additional training in order to snag your dream job? Some jobs require that you have more education or more experience in order to qualify. There are many great online schools that can help you get a higher degree without sacrificing a lot of time and money. So, do your research to find out what you need to get ahead!

Step #5 – walk the walk

Give your resume a make-over and start putting yourself out there! Remember, persistence is the key to finding a job, so don’t get discouraged!
The most patriotic thing that you can do this year is finding a job that you love. After all, happy employees make good workers, and our country is definitely in need of a strong workforce to help re-build our economy!