... I went and picked up "Escape from Cubicle Nation" by Pamela Slim at the library ...
"Chapter 1. I Have a Fancy Title, Steady Paycheck, and Good Benefits. Why Am I So Miserable?"
If that doesn't scream, GIVE THIS BOOK A CHANCE, I don't know what does.
Now, I don't have a fancy title but I do have a lovely cubicle , a steady paycheck, good benefits, and plenty of misery.
On the good days, I recall how tough times are and am satisfied in the knowledge that I am not facing a layoff. I know that I will be able to pay my mortgage, put food on the table, see the doctor, and probably even take a vacation within the next 12 months.
On the bad days, I realize that I am not choosing the position that grants me the ability to be thankful ... I am stuck there. When the reality that I am well and truly trapped returns to the forefront of my mind, I struggle to get out of bed so I can get to work on time, fight back tears at my desk (sometimes losing the battle), and wonder where I went so terribly wrong in life. I was once a bright, intelligent, high achieving, successful person that was excited about new information and challenges. How did I find myself in an environment where I feel like I have nothing to offer and can't manage to get anything right but helping everyone else get ahead?
I think I'd better get to reading...