(Last in a two-part series. Part one covers getting out of a life rut.)

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Have you ever felt like you’re just going through the motions at work? Maybe your job used to excite you, but now every day feels like a repeat of the last. If this sounds familiar, you might be stuck in a work rut.

Recognising the signs early can help you take action before frustration and boredom take over. Here are 10 signs that you might be in a career slump – and what you can do to break free.

1. You’ve Lost Motivation

If the passion you once had for your work has faded, and you struggle to stay engaged, it’s a major red flag. You might find yourself procrastinating more, doing the bare minimum, or feeling indifferent about your tasks.

What to do: Identify what used to excite you about your work. Can you take on new projects, learn a new skill, or find ways to make your tasks more interesting?

2. Your Work Feels Meaningless

Even when you finish tasks, you don’t feel a sense of accomplishment. If your job feels like it has no real purpose, it’s easy to lose enthusiasm.

What to do: Reflect on what gives you a sense of purpose. Can you align your work with something that matters to you, or is it time to consider a career shift?

3. Every Day Feels the Same

If your job has become a never-ending loop of repetitive tasks with no variety, boredom is bound to set in.

What to do: Shake things up. Try changing your routine, taking on new responsibilities, or looking for opportunities to innovate in your role.

4. You’re Not Growing or Learning

When was the last time you learned something new at work? If your skill set has remained stagnant for a long time, it can make your job feel uninspiring.

What to do: Seek opportunities for growth. Take an online course, ask for new challenges, or network with colleagues to gain fresh insights.

5. You Feel More Frustrated Than Usual

Do minor inconveniences at work feel unbearable? If you’re constantly irritated by colleagues, emails, or meetings, it could be a sign that deeper dissatisfaction is creeping in.

What to do: Identify the root of your frustration. Is it the job itself, or something else? If necessary, talk to your manager about making adjustments to improve your work experience.

6. Your Performance Has Declined

If you’re making more mistakes, missing deadlines, or struggling to stay focused, it might not just be a bad week – it could be a sign that you’ve mentally checked out.

What to do: Be honest with yourself. Are you still invested in this job, or is it time to move on? If you want to stay, find ways to reignite your interest in your work.

7. You Don’t See a Clear Future in Your Role

Feeling stuck often comes from a lack of progress. If you don’t see any room for advancement or a clear path forward, it can make your job feel pointless.

What to do: Talk to your boss about career progression. If there’s no room for growth, consider whether this job aligns with your long-term goals.

8. You’re Avoiding Challenges

If you used to take on challenges with enthusiasm but now dodge extra work, responsibilities, or learning opportunities, it could be a sign of disengagement.

What to do: Push yourself outside your comfort zone. Tackling new challenges can make work more exciting and help you regain a sense of accomplishment.

9. You’re Using Distractions to Get Through the Day

Do you find yourself mindlessly scrolling through social media, taking excessive breaks, or zoning out in meetings? These are coping mechanisms for boredom and disengagement.

What to do: Instead of numbing the monotony, take action. Identify what’s missing from your work experience and make small changes to re-engage.

10. You Daydream About a Different Job – But Don’t Take Action

If you’re constantly fantasising about quitting or switching careers but never take any steps toward change, you’re stuck in a cycle of frustration.

What to do: Start small. Research new career paths, update your resume, or network with others in fields that interest you. Even small actions can help you break free from your rut.

Final Thoughts: It’s Time to Make a Change

Recognising that you’re stuck is the first step. The good news? You don’t have to make drastic changes overnight. Sometimes, small shifts – like learning something new, setting career goals, or talking to your manager – can make all the difference.

If your job still doesn’t feel fulfilling after trying to reignite your passion, it might be time to explore new opportunities. Don’t settle for a job that drains you – your career should challenge, inspire, and excite you.

Feeling stuck? What’s one step you can take today to move forward? Let me know in the comments!

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(Feeling generally stuck in life? Part one covers getting out of a life rut.)