1. Insufficient Staffing

In my view, our team lacks adequate personnel. Despite numerous candidates seeking employment, hiring more individuals seems complicated, leading to the next issue.

2. Lack of Senior Leadership

In a smaller organization, each team member’s contribution is magnified. If someone underperforms or disrupts the team dynamic in a large company, the impact is less noticeable than in a team of 25. Therefore, new hires must be meticulously selected. Those who arrive with fixed notions of how things should be done often struggle to align with our existing culture, risking project outcomes.

3. Overwhelming Workload

Agency life often hinges on maintaining client relationships. The ideal scenario is repeat business, which is achieved through delivering high-quality work at competitive rates. Unfortunately, this often results in our bosses overextending our capabilities to meet client expectations, especially in the wake of restructuring and layoffs, as firms aim to maximize profit margins.

4. Limited Project Choices

In an agency context, client demands dictate the majority of our work. We often lack the freedom to pursue projects that genuinely interest us.

5. Minimal Internal Development

With constant changes and little time for internal process improvement, adaptability is crucial. This leads to ongoing discussions with supervisors, who are often already stretched thin.

6. Job Market Constraints

If you’re dissatisfied in your role, it’s common advice to seek a new position. However, in today’s job market, opportunities are scarce, making transitions challenging.

7. Inadequate Compensation

Even if the challenges were manageable, my current salary falls below the market average for the Bay Area, leaving me feeling undervalued.

8. Lack of Purposeful Work

I believe that purpose is cultivated rather than discovered. Yet, some of the companies I work with contradict my personal values, making it difficult to feel aligned with their missions.

The stress from these experiences has led to a daily struggle, waking up with anxiety about my work situation.

Is a job better than no job? Absolutely. The ability to support myself is invaluable, but I often feel I’m sacrificing my well-being for my role in UX.

For some, transitioning back to previous roles has been more straightforward. However, as someone who pursued a career in UX from the start, I feel cornered with no alternative paths.

1. Open Communication

Talk to your manager or a supportive colleague about your struggles. Sharing your feelings can provide relief and possibly lead to assistance.

2. Practice Gratitude

I strive to appreciate having a job, especially when many are without. I remind myself of my passion for UX, even when it’s challenging.

3. Engage with Inspiring Literature

Consider reading authors like Brianna Wiest or Brené Brown during your downtime. Their insights can provide perspective and help clarify your situation.

4. Find Purpose in Challenges

Identify a cause or person worth enduring hardships for, and remind yourself of this motivation regularly.

5. Keep Searching for Opportunities

Although the job market is tough, exploring other roles can be beneficial.

6. Take Breaks and Breathe

Even a short walk or a coffee break can significantly alleviate stress.

7. Simplify Your Home Life

Focus on relaxation outside of work to prevent additional stressors from compounding your challenges.