How to get unstuck?

Photo by marina on Unsplash

Ever feel like you’re spinning your wheels at work, lacking the enthusiasm to tackle another workday, or dreading those same old meetings with your boss?

The reality is that, at some point in our careers, we all experience that feeling of being stuck. The crucial question is how can we have a strong mental framework to navigate through this phase successfully.

There are two main culprits behind the stagnation blues: lack of challenge and overwhelm from a big challenge. Let’s address both.

Not Getting Challenged

Imagine this: you’re at work, asking “What’s next?” and silence echoes back. Days melt into weeks, leaving you feeling accomplished, but not really growing. Here’s how to break free:

1. Acknowledge the Situation: Examine the results from the past few months or the year — have you learned and grown as a person? Do you feel more confident in your abilities compared to the past year? Have you seen any tangible improvements in your skills and influence? These questions will help you acknowledge where you stand, and this is the first step toward change.
2. Probe the Root Cause: Is it the environment, the team, or your own lethargy? If your team is stagnant, you’re likely stuck too. Evaluate how you may have contributed to the present situation and if you are willing to make any changes.