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The Honeymoon Is Over: 5 Actions to Take When Your Job Becomes Stagnant

by | Apr 6, 2021 | Features, Career, Productivity

Like any new experience, the honeymoon phase at your job is filled with thrills and expectations. You are eager to tackle new assignments and learn every aspect of your organization’s culture. During this phase, it is nothing for you to give your new position every bit of your time and energy.

Typically, the workplace honeymoon period lasts approximately 6 months. Signs that this blissful phase has ended include boredom, frustration and lack of motivation. What should you do when reality sets in and this phase comes to a screeching halt?

The good news is you are in control of how you feel about your job. There are things you can do to rekindle the spark that you had when you joined your company. Take these 5 actions to breathe life back into your stagnant job.

1. Set New Goals

The first thing to do is accept that the honeymoon phase of your job is over. That way, you can assess the situation and set new career goals. Here are a few things you can do.

  • Think about the big picture and the steps you need to take to get there.
  • Find out what you can do to make your boss’ life easier.
  • Create a timeline to achieve your goals.
  • Visualize what achieving the goal looks like.
  • Reach out to people who can help you achieve your goals.

2. Update Your Skills

When was the last time you took a career development course? If it has been a while, consider enrolling in a few courses that can improve your skills.

There are several benefits of updating your job skills. Not only can new skills improve your career prospects, but they can also boost your confidence. Other benefits of acquiring new skills include:

  • Reduce or eliminate job boredom.
  • Remain competitive and relevant at your company.
  • Improve brain cognition.
  • Increase marketability when looking for a new job.
  • Boost excitement and curiosity.

At Corporate Counsel Women of Color (CCWC), many of our members attend our annual career strategies conference to increase their skills. Our members learn proven career strategies from leaders in the legal profession.

3. Expand Your Network

Relationships with your colleagues can impact your career success. In many instances, job growth can be limited by the size and scope of your network. A strong and diverse group of colleagues can give you access to business connections, fresh ideas and career support.

The importance of human connections is often overlooked. Having a good network within and outside your organization means that you will have access to diverse perspectives and experiences.

This year, our CCWC 17th Annual Career Strategies Conference will take place in Los Angeles. It offers plenty of opportunities for you to meet new people and add more value to your organization.

4. Become a Mentor or Volunteer

Giving back allows you to showcase your ability to perform a variety of tasks. This can be done within or outside your organization. Volunteer opportunities include mentoring new colleagues, working at a shelter or helping colleagues finish their projects at work.

Engaging in community projects is a good way to serve others and meet new people. Volunteering can provide you with some level of fulfillment and increase your opportunities.

5. Take a Break

A demanding job can take a toll on you even if you love what you do. This is especially true if you work more than 40 hours per week. Working a lot of hours can lead to stagnation and career burn-out.

You may not be able to take a vacation right now. However, you can schedule 15 to 30 minutes for daily breaks on your calendar. Use this time to listen to your favorite music, sit quietly or walk around the block (or your office). Scheduling time to disconnect from workplace challenges can get you back on track and ready to take on new opportunities.

Maintaining your health and well-being is key to creating the career that you desire. Overcoming a stagnant job can be challenging. With determination and creativity, you can find meaning and purpose in your job again.

Want to learn more strategies that can revive your legal career? At Corporate Counsel Women of Color, our organization supports in-house attorneys who are women of color. If you are ready to build your network and connect with other professional women, join our organization today.

Explore the following resources to overcome job stagnation:

  • Invaluable: Master the 10 Skills Needed to Skyrocket Your Career by Maya Grossman
  • Comeback Careers: Rethink, Refresh, Reinvent Your Success —  At 40, 50 and Beyond by Mika Brzezinski and Ginny Brzezinski
  • Rise: 3 Practical Steps for Advancing Your Career, Standing Out as a Leader, and Liking Your Life by Patty Azzarello

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