If you’ve ever felt stuck in a job where you’re bored, unmotivated, and unsure of how to grow, you’ve experienced career stagnation. Career stagnation occurs when there’s little to no opportunity for growth or development in your current role. If this applies to you, don’t worry, you’re not alone. It’s an incredibly common phenomenon. 77% of people feel burnt out in their current role, while less than half feel that they have internal mobility.
The combination of burnout with no growth opportunities leads to a crippling feeling of stagnation. Luckily, there are tried and true methods to resolve stagnation and kick your career into high gear.
Acknowledge Your Stagnation
The first step to solving any issue is to recognize it. If you identify with the following statements, you are likely suffering from career stagnation:
- Consistent feelings of boredom
- No role progression
- No learning opportunities
- Your work is no longer challenging
- You lack a clear future there
- No skills development
Career stagnation is inevitable at some point in your career, especially when you’ve been in the same role for a while. By acknowledging this stagnation, you are able to make a plan to move past it.
Reconsider Your Career Goals
Set aside time to consider what it is you truly want from your career. Take stock of factors such as:
- What excites you in your current role?
- What kind of company culture aligns with your values?
- What skills do you currently have?
- What is your ultimate career goal?
From this analysis, you’ll have a clearer view of your ideal future and can set a plan in place to achieve it.
Conduct a Skills Audit
Now that you have a specific goal in mind, it’s time to create your plan. Think about the skills required for your dream career. Do some background research and compile a list of the most important skills for that role and industry.
Once you have a thorough list, go through it and mark them as one of these three categories:
- Excel – You’re highly proficient in these skills.
- Proficient – You have a solid grasp but could improve.
- Needs Improvement – You lack experience and need to develop these skills.
For the skills that need improvement, consider online courses, workshops, or certifications to strengthen your expertise.
This is a great way to invest in yourself and your future. It will pay off when it comes time to interview for roles. An expanded skill set will open more doors and your initiative will impress interviewers.
Volunteer for New Projects at Work
Making a major career move isn’t always an option. That’s okay – it’s possible to break free from career stagnation without changing roles. One way to re-energize your role is by taking on new challenges. Reach out to your manager and let them know that you’re interested in taking on new tasks. If there’s a specific project you’re interested in, try to get involved. This can help ease the feeling of monotony and introduce you to new challenges that will help you grow.
If you’re trying to expand your skillset, ask about learning and development programs at your company. Most companies will have pre-existing programs that can help you learn while remaining at your current job.
Network
Having a strong community is one of the best ways to get through a rough patch. Your network is no different. Connect with others in your industry and discuss where you are in your career. You’ll likely find that many people have faced similar challenges. By sharing your experience, you can gain fresh perspectives and helpful advice.
Your network can also open doors to new opportunities. Someone in your circle might connect you to your next career move.
Career stagnation can feel frustrating and overwhelming, but it’s not permanent. By implementing these strategies, you can develop a clear plan to move forward. This plan can serve as a guiding light to lead you out of career stagnation and into career success.
