To think that most people only apply for jobs when things are going badly rather than proactively looking for better opportunities?

[SnugShaker]

It seems like a lot of people only start job hunting when they’re miserable - whether that’s due to a toxic environment, a bad manager or feeling underpaid. But isn’t that the worst time to look? Wouldn’t it be better to apply when you’re in a strong position rather than when you’re desperate to escape? Or is it just human nature to only make a move when things become unbearable?

I get what you’re saying but tbh I’m also surprised at the number of people who stay in jobs they hate and just cling on being miserable. But then as others have said, changing jobs requires effort and involves risk and uncertainty. I job hopped a fair bit in my 20s but now I am in my 40s with boring grown up responsibilities I’m much more risk averse, and things like culture and flexibility are more important to me than climbing the ladder. Plus the job market is pretty hellish, job hunting sucks and the world is all a bit crazy atm (currently job hunting after being made redundant).