People can get frustrated with their careers.  There comes a point in everyone’s life where they feel stuck. If you’re feeling this way know that you’re not alone. Let’s be honest, we all have to try out different jobs at one point in our lives. It is rare to find someone who has been at the same job, with the same company, for 30+ years.  The trick is knowing when you are feeling stuck versus when you are really not a great match for a specific career.

Loosing interest in your job can simply be a sign that you need more responsibility.  If tasks are no longer challenging then you might find yourself bored.  Start with trying to re-engage with co-workers.  Find out what they are doing and see if you can help. Or, change your daily routine if possible. Have lunch with a co-worker, volunteer to cover someone’s shift, or join the safety committee  Try getting more involved with your work life and see if this helps drown out the feeling of being stuck.

You can also try asking for more responsibility. My mantra is the best policy is an honest one.  If you feel you can be doing more at work to stay engaged, don’t hesitate to tell your boss. Ask to take on more responsibility and request feedback regarding your situation. A boss might not be providing you more work because he or she is fearful you will be overwhelmed.  Describe your desires to move up in the company versus your present frustration.

If you engage with co-workers and still feel stuck, or if your boss said no to added responsibility  then you might have to start thinking about a career change.