Make your job about more than just a paycheck

Work is an integral part of our lives. It shapes how we feel about ourselves, how much money we make, and how we spend our time outside the office. So when you hate your job, it affects everything else.

If you hate what you do, it's hard to be happy at work. And if you're not happy at work, it can be difficult to be happy in other parts of life. If your job makes you unhappy every day, here's what you need to know before quitting:

Your work should give you a sense of purpose.

If you're doing something that makes the world better, that's great. But if you're punching the clock and counting down the days until retirement, it's time for a change. If your current job doesn't make you happy, look for something else that does. A new career might not be on the horizon, but there are always ways to move up within an organization or take on more responsibility until you find something better suited for your skillset and interests.

Your job should fit well with your personality and values.

If you're not happy at work, it's probably because the two aren't compatible. If you know what kind of job would be right for you, it's easier to find one that works. An office job may be the best fit if you're someone who thrives on routine and structure. But if you like variety and change, working in a cubicle may drive you crazy.

You should enjoy what you get paid to do and feel good about how you spend your time at work. If you don't love what you do, find something else that better fits who you are as a person.

Your work should make you proud.

While it's okay to make a living doing something you don't love, it's not okay to be miserable with your life because of it. If you're constantly feeling down or tired at work, that's a sign that something needs to change. You need to find something that will make you happy and confident about going to work every day — even if it isn't as financially rewarding as your current job.

All jobs, no matter how big or small will have problems and issues. They will all have an employer that isn't perfect and a work environment that doesn't fit every person. But it is important to know what a job can give you beyond just the paycheck at the end of the week.

Does it respect your time and effort? Does the company appreciate hard work? Are the managers patient and willing to help you learn? Is there room for growth within your current position or with the company? These are all questions that I think are worth asking yourself should you be working somewhere that has those answers.

A job that gives you more than just a paycheck is worth more than any paycheck.