You’ve been working at your job for a while and, for the most part, you’re fairly content. But even if you’re happy in your 9-5, you should still proactively search for other jobs. Here are five reasons why.

You can build contacts. It’s always beneficial to be well-connected within your industry, whether you’re working or not. So attend seminars or other professional association meetings to refresh your network. And if you’re planning a 360 degree career change, being connected to fresh new contacts may help you as you look for a job in a different industry.

There’s less pressure. Job hunting is never easy, but especially so when you’re living from one measly unemployment check to the next. But when you’re gainfully employed, you won’t feel the need to accept any old job that’s offered to you because you need to work—now. You can pick and choose a position that works for you, meeting both your salary requirements as well as enhancing your overall worklife balance.

It gives you perspective. Sure, your boss might micromanage every nanosecond of your day, but your dismal view of him—and your company—might change once you see what’s really out there in the job market. After all, no position is perfect, and you may come to appreciate your boss’ good qualities as well. And in today’s tough job market, it will also help you to be grateful for the fact that you’re gainfully employed. 

There’s less competition. If a hiring manager has to sift through over 100 resumes in order to fill one position, the odds might be against you that you’ll get called in for an interview. (And if you do, you’ll be competing against many other eager job seekers.) If you ask for an informational interview during a non-hiring period, however, a potential boss might grant you 15 minutes of his time. During the interview, you can learn about the company, what they have to offer—and what you could potentially offer them as an employee.

It allows you to explore your options. By day, you’re an accountant. By night, you’re in your cramped kitchen, up to your ears in fondant and dreaming of becoming an award-winning pastry chef. Working in your present position affords you the luxury of dreaming about what you’d really like to do in the next phase of your career—and then allows you the time and energy to pursue it professionally.

Jennifer Parris writes about career topics for FlexJobs.com. Working Mother Media and FlexJobs have partnered to help workingmother.com readers find flexible work solutions – such as telecommuting, freelance, part-time and flexible schedule jobs –  for themselves. Learn more here.