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
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
I’m in a rut because I have a bachelor degree in health administration and can’t find a job. Every employer is looking for experience workers. But how can I get experience when no job wants to hire me.I think I have given up and do not know what to do. I am really in a rut any suggestion on how to go about this.
I have learned that when you are unable to find paid work in order to get experience- volunteer or become an intern. This will help get your foot in the door and give you the experience you need until gainful employment comes along. Good luck and happy hunting!
Hey My Name is Azaria Harris a I know it has my name on here but it don’t have my last name. I graduated from college with a Computer Fundamental Certificate and I am having a hard time finding a job. I love everything that you do and you are a good person and I hope to get to know you better one day.
I started a home staging business and I am finding it difficult to get Realtors to give me a meeting. Its the hot season in real estate from April-July and everyone is super busy. I became defeated and felt that it may have been a mistake putting all of my resources into my business. I started bring humpday hot Krispie Kreme doughnuts to the same offices that wouldnt give me the time of day. They now expect me on Wednesdays and one office actually offered me a partnership opportunity that will make me the home stager they use for their listings. I could have given up while in my rut but instead I revamped my marketing efforts and kept pushing.
That’s fantastic to hear Tiana!
Thank you :)
Wow that’s great Tiana! Thanks for the Inspiration!
Thanks Elisha
Hello,
My name is Olivia, I needed this today. I’ve been in a bit of a rut. I just graduated from college with my undergrad degree and have plans to go to law school next year. Meanwhile I decided to job search to have some sort of experience leaned more toward child advocacy. Starting off, the job search was slow. Then it all began to happen so fast. I took on a job in the administrative field, however I kept receiving job offers in the social service field. The social service field is where I would prefer to work so that my experience can plug into my law degree. Fast forward, I decided to take a job offer in the social service field and I begin to feel in a rut sometimes because I look at the overall goal which is getting my law degree, & it just seems like I’m “moving slow.” I had to talk myself out of my rut because I had to remind myself of all the great things that I have accomplished, even while being a single mother….now about to marry my best friend. My mentor said to me one day that in everything it takes preparation. It’s okay to take time to physically, Mentally, and emotionally prepare yourself for what you want out of life. Your “getting out of a rut” blog/letter was just confirmation that I’m moving in the right direction.
Thank you,
Olivia Teagle
I think another important tip to not get into a rut is to remember that YOUR work no matter how much you like it or dislike it is a reflection of YOU. Taking pride in what you do, even if it’s temporary for you, helps create a sense of purpose and meaning.
-Mark
http://dreamjobx.com/career-test/