What to Do When You Feel Stuck (Before You Quit)

by Professional Development

We’ve all been there.
 
You’re frustrated, uninspired, and everything at work feels… stuck.
 
Your first thought? Maybe it’s time to quit.

 

Sometimes, that is the right answer. But more often than not, my clients realize the problem isn’t just the job—it’s how they’re feeling in the job.
 
And here’s the biggest mistake I see:

👉 People wait.
 
They wait for a layoff to force their hand.
They wait for a surprise opportunity to come along.
 
The problem? If you haven’t done the work to figure out what you really want, you’re reacting, not deciding.
 
Here’s the truth:

The best time to build new skills, take on growth opportunities, and even practice managing tricky situations… is while you’re still in your current role.
 
That’s where the magic happens, because whether you stay or go, you’re developing muscles that set you up for success.
 
So before you make any big moves, here are 4 steps to take:


1️⃣ Get Clear on What’s Really Bothering You.
Is it your boss? The type of work? Lack of recognition? Or burnout creeping in? Be brutally honest about what’s not working.

2️⃣ Do a Gut Check: What’s Still Good?
Even when things feel heavy, there’s often something worth keeping—whether it’s flexibility, your paycheck, or your reputation. Knowing what is working helps you make smarter choices.

3️⃣ Talk It Out.
Have honest conversations with a trusted colleague, your manager, or a coach. (Note: your level of transparency should match your audience.) You might discover small shifts like a new project, a schedule tweak, or clearer expectations that make a big difference.

4️⃣ Take Action—Even If It’s Small.
Stuckness thrives on inaction. Choose one thing to shift this week: block time for reflection, ask for a new challenge, or reconnect with someone in your network.


 
Here’s what I want you to remember:

You don’t have to wait until you’re somewhere new to make things better.
 
Whether you stay or decide to look for something else, taking control now puts you in a much stronger position for whatever’s next.
 
If you’re feeling stuck and want personalized support, my free Career Checkup is a great place to start. We’ll dig into what’s working, what’s not, and map out real next steps—whether you’re ready for a change or just need to make things better where you are. Grab your spot here.

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Hi, I’m Dana

I help ambitious career-driven leaders gain clarity and make needle-moving decisions to confidently and purposefully get ahead at work without burnout or sacrificing precious family time.

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