Sometimes, we get in ruts. No matter how perfect a fit a job is, you can feel stuck from time to time. We can’t just go jumping from one vocation to the next when this happens. In fact, if it’s something we really want to pursue, it’s worth working to get out of the rut instead of running away from the problems faced. Of course, there’s a difference between needing time to refresh your outlook and being in need of a permanent change. If it’s a rut you’re in, try these ideas before moving on.
In any type of career from acting to accounting, you can get in a rut or experience burn out if you don’t give yourself a break. Taking time off is super important and if it is possible with your job, I recommend it as a first step. I recently had my baby moon in Belize and being able to immerse myself in different scenery and culture really helped my outlook when I arrived back at home sweet home.
However, traveling is not always possible, and it’s not the only way to pick yourself up out of a rut. I’ve heard from many that sometimes a mental escape was more necessary than a physical one. If the job is starting to feel monotonous or you don’t feel like you’re giving it your all, try to think of one aspect you feel fulfilled by, kind of like an escape from your current point of view. Maybe it’s a promotion you just have to put the time in for or a big project you can see yourself really contributing to. Sometimes the solution isn’t getting away, but jumping in.
Going along with that, I’ve noticed if I get overwhelmed – no matter how much I love what I’m working on, it can happen – a shift in perspective is necessary from time to time. In my industry, the things I’m doing constantly change. If I can’t adapt, I’ll be stuck. Just thinking about the experience I’m gaining or how this may open doors for me down the road, settles me. I’ve noticed that in any job under the sun, the role is bound to change over time from what was written on those hiring papers. Sometimes this evolution into something else leads to opportunity in a new space.
I’d love to hear your career tips and challenges too. Any topics you’d like me to talk about next time?
Xx,
Tamera
25 Responses
Great advice Tamera!
Thanks Tamera. I’m an up and coming writer. It has it’s challenges, but I remember the advice your husband gave you about focusing too much. It helps to look away and come back to it with fresh eyes. It really helps.
My challenges: Trying to keep grades up not to be stress about it and trying to get into Pepperdine how do I try to calm myself and stop stressing myself about trying to get into Pepperdine??
Well my rut is that I’m working full time and studying as well, though I have lost all motivation to study because of stresses elsewhere.. what can i do to gain focus again, its really important that i finish this course..
My challenge is finding a work from home job that isn’t customer service or doing phone calls… There doesn’t seem to be much out there for people with mental illness (agoraphobia)
Have you thought of Transcription work? Plenty of business people use voice notes for things but farm it out to freelancers to type it up for them.
If you have a decent education standard and a passion for a topic you could tutor kids in your home.
If you like creating you could make things and sell them on somewhere like Etsy.
(These are a few of the options floated my way a couple years ago -I had an uncontrolled neuro disorder, which is now controlled. I am now advancing slowly to the dream job, but I thought I would share!)
Thank you, Angela! I did have an etsy shop, but I wasn’t getting any views and never even made a sale. I’ve been trying to find transcription work, but they fill up pretty fast and have waiting lists. I’m biding my time doing surveys, but with a wedding coming up, I need to be making more than $.20 a day. lol