Dear J&B,
My career feels at a standstill. I haven’t felt challenged or appreciated at work for a long time. I’m beginning to feel resentful. I’ve missed deadlines, but just can’t seem to focus. My work is well paid and I have stellar benefits. What’s wrong with me? Why can’t I get it together?
Stuck
Dear Stuck,
This is a tough situation. You may be burned out, bored or your job is misaligned with your values. You may also be depressed (please consult a trained professional for support). Many women are dealing with burnout and high-level exhaustion from months of shouldering work and family duties under covid. And when we’re burned out, resentment increases and we’re less able to restore ourselves on the weekends. You’re in a low energy “danger zone”.
Take some time off and completely unplug from work and other obligations for at least 3-4 days. Negotiate with a partner to delegate family duties over as much of this time as possible. Then, check-in with yourself and see how you feel. If boredom is the issue, try talking to a trusted manager about other projects or opportunities that are available to stretch you into a new role. Exploring options could help boost you out of this rut.
If your work remains unappealing or if your job or the mission of your employer conflict with your personal values, it may be time to move on. Do so from a position of strength by correcting your attitude (at least openly) and improving your follow-through. This can be easier to manage once you’ve made the firm decision to move on.
Also be mindful and engage in self-care regularly. These are very stressful times. Get as much rest as you can, eat healthy foods, get moving with walks or gentle yoga. Do your best to resist relying on caffeine or alcohol to adjust your energy levels.
Be kind to yourself and take care.
Jam & Bread
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