Let's face it - sometimes we got comfortable.  We stay in the same job FOREVER because we know how to do it and how to do it well.  We know the people.  We know who to call to get something done.

It's easy.

What's not always easy - is knowing when to leave.  Sometimes the signs are not clear.  You get good performance reviews.  People think you are doing a great job.  Your customers or clients love you.  The company is doing well.  It is a good, positive, nurturing culture.

But for some reason - you aren't happy.

No matter how "good" the situation is, it can be time to move on and look elsewhere.  Life's too short to spend years wondering "what could have been".  Here's how to figure it out.

So how to do you know it is time to move on?  Ask yourself these 3 questions:

1. Am I bored?

Are you still challenged with your work?  Or are you mind -numbingly bored?  Do you dread going to work every day solely because you are counting the minutes, are not challenged and find yourself day dreaming all day long?  We all become good at our jobs, but we still find excitement and meaning in the work.  If you get to the point where you know longer find any meaning in your work, it is time to move on.

I am not suggesting that you started a job 2 weeks ago and don't think you are making an impact.  I am suggesting that you have been in a role, are doing it well, and find the role isn't fulfilling you any longer.

2. Do I imagine myself doing other things?

As you sit there doing your job, do you picture yourself doing another job?  Do you look at other people and think - that looks interesting, maybe I could do that?  If you find yourself constantly wondering whether another job/career is right for you - start looking.

3. What is important to me?

This question is a little harder.  What I mean is - from a career perspective - what matters to you?  Does it matter that you are at a place of employment where you can move up, left or right?  Does it matter that your company engages in philanthropic endeavors, fundraising or supports charitable causes?  Does it matter that you have work/life balance or would you rather work 24/7 but be constantly challenged?  Does it matter that your company is prestigious and well-known?   Does it matter than you might need additional education or degrees to progress?  Does it matter that the work you are doing changes someone's life?  Does it matter that your work moves the company forward?  Does it matter that you get to try something new, bring a new product to market or sunset an existing product? Does it matter that you get to work with people across multiple departments?

As you can see - this last question is a doozy.  What is requires is for you to make a Top 10 list of your Career Must-Have's.  You need to take the time to reflect and determine what is important to you in your job and career.  Prioritize this list.  Figure out what all you want or can have.

Then you need to decide whether the current road you are following can get you there.