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
Hi tamera,
what an indpiration you are. Im a 47 yr ol mom of 1 college junior. I have been working in the medical field for over 25 years, i am not only in a career rut, but the company i work for has done 3 major layoffs in 6 months. I just not happy there.
I feel lost…..i am currently in school for residential planning, 4 months to graduation. I fear im too old to start a career in such a competitive market,and i’ve found that my real padsion is in building things, wood work, making special headboards. I pray God leads me on the path he has set for me and help me to stay positive and not give up because of my age.
Thank you
Christine.
I am a Mental Health therapist in Substance Abuse and Tamera , you are spot on ! The biggest thing to me that you mention was escaping mentally– may be more necessary than an actual physical one. Try using techniques such imagery , or breathing; relaxation techniques (even on the job), these techniques can refresh your mind giving you a new perspective or energy to tackle what’s giving you the most stress… Also, after following you for years , I know how much you enjoy and take time out to prepare for your day. Sometimes the actual problem may be within how you are preparing for your day or week . If you are always on the go and never “preparing” a chance to settle down and do “self care” activities of course your job that last at least 8 hours of the day with disappointing pay will create more anxiety and stress in your life, so I encourage others and even MYSELF to look at the overall picture , is there something outside my career that I can change to make it a little bit more easier , before I decide to do another job switch!?
Thanks for always being an inspiration Tamera.
xoxo
Crystal
I have my own business is called Helping Hands Private Duty Care Ltd. I have been incorporated since 2013.Believe me when i tell you it felt like i was in a rut when my client whom i became really close to while giving her care for a year passed on to heaven as i say. I miss her more than words can describe.In order to get more clients in line of work is always word of mouth.For a while no one was calling i felt like all that hard work and all my dedication and love felt like no doors were going to open up for me.I made myself a promise not to ever give up to just have faith that it will happen.So i stop worrying about it and left it in Gods hands..I must say i am so glad i did. A really good friend of mines recommended me to one of her friends. I can honestly say i am truly bless business is really blooming.All hard work do pay thank God without him it would not be possible. God Bless you and your beautiful family Tamera.. Nancy Rodriguez Powell
Hi I’m Vinnie and I just turned 22and I’m in a “career” rut because I have a wonderful job but It doesn’t pay quite as wonderfully. I plan on moving to Atlanta to pursue singing and another job in my field of Psychology. But I’m not sure exactly what it is I want to do with my life :( I keep praying though and hopefully I’ll get an answer soon. But if you have any tips on what to do when you have no idea what you want to do in life that would be great! I love kids so maybe I’ll continue to do that. I currently work with kids now too on the Tumblebus and I love it!
I’m a Mom of nine. I also attended most of the births in my family for my cousin and sisters. I’m now becoming a certified Doula. I believe this is my calling. I do believe I’ve discovered the secret to child birth and would like to share it with you. I am attaching a link to my blog below. I have reached out on FB, Twitter, and Instagram. I also worked full-time for ten years after staying at home. On thing I always had to do was stay a day ahead of everything. Laundry, meals especially, and appointments. Everything including drop offs and pick up were confirmed a day ahead.
https://urbangardenandlife.wordpress.com/2015/06/01/giving-birth-to-a-new-spirit/