We have all been there. You find yourself feeling stuck at work, recycling old ideas, with no growth potential in sight. Maybe you’ve stopped thinking for yourself or feel uninspired to volunteer for new and challenging assignments. Usually this is a temporary feeling that won’t require drastic measures (like quitting your job!). You may just need to examine your position from a few different angles. These ideas can help.
1-If you feel like you have no control over your schedule, workload, or assignments, take a broad look for the cause. Does it have to do with your own skills or productivity? Or are you dealing with a manager who has unrealistic expectations? Or a company that has recently downsized? Although it will be your responsibility to get yourself the skills you need, if you have workload issues due to other factors, speak with your manager to help set realistic expectations. This type of clarity goes a long way in bringing control to your day.
2-If you are unclear about what is expected of you in your position, have an honest conversation with your manager about job responsibilities. Before you talk, write down your own understanding of your job duties. After the conversation, make revisions and give a copy to your manager so you’ll both be clear. You’ll know where you stand, where you need to improve, and what you can let go of.
3-If you don’t feel supported at work, use the same lessons you would at home with your partner or roommates. Bring suggestions to your manager about ways that he or she can support you. The conversation may be uncomfortable but it’s important to know your manager has your back.
4-If your position is either total monotony or utter chaos, there are ways you can deal with these extremes in activity. If you find your work more on the dull side, suggest ways to do things differently. Generating and implementing new ideas energizes you and benefits the company. If your work is more unpredictable and chaotic, see if you can work outside the office every so often, so that you can balance yourself and focus.
Being in a work rut is usually temporary. It can involve your workload, your manager, or your office environment and you may not need to quit your job to get out of it. Being clear about what is expected of you, having some control over your day, and knowing you have a supportive manager and team all contribute to doing your best work and enjoying it.
