You’ve heard that money isn’t everything. Money doesn’t buy happiness (but it helps…) and half a dozen other cliches. I’d have to agree with it for the most part. I’ve had jobs where I was making great money, but I was miserable. The team over at LifeHack gives their 6 factors (other than salary) that boost happiness:

Decrease your commute. I spent ten years driving nearly an hour each way to work, not uncommon for many American workers. Then, I made the decision to pay more for a home and live six miles from work. The effect has been significant as my wife can stop by work anytime and I cash in on more sleep, all the while adding to the lifespan of my car.

It’s an incredible feeling to work so close to home. I used to love being able to go home for lunch every day, not having to fight work traffic on my commute and not stressing out when I was running a little late. Ah…the good old days

6 Factors Besides Salary That Boost Happiness – [LifeHack]

I’m a big fan of not letting your emotions control you leading you to decisions that you’ll regret. But there has to be a line somewhere. You can’t be miserable you’re whole life. Maybe I’m too loyal sometimes. At one job, I loathed everything about it for literally 6 months. Part of that was me not getting off of my lazy butt and agressivly hunting for a new job, but still, I was there for too long. Where does the line get drawn?

Consistently Manage Your Career

Here’s what I’ve found to be somewhat helpful: Never stop managing your career. No matter how happy you are at your job, always be on the lookout for your next position. I’ve heard that you should interview with companies year round (without your current employer knowing of course.) I’m not sure that I buy into that. If I were on the other side of the interview table, I’d think twice about hiring the guy that has had 5 jobs in the last 2 years. Job stability is important.

So we’re back to square one. How do you know when to change jobs? Well, here’s my two cence: If you’re consistently miserable at your job, it’s time to look for something else. I’m not talking about “I had a bad day! I quit!” I’m talking about “I’ve had a bad day, week and month! Now I quit!”

Step 1: See if there is anything you can do to change whatever it is that’s bothering you at your job. Communication can do wonders. If that doesn’t work proceed to step 2 below.

Step 2: This isn’t rocket science. If you hate your job find a new one!