Overcoming a Career Slump

If you are feeling the effects of falling into a career slump, you are not alone. According to one scientific study, many professionals reach a period in the middle of their career where they find they are unsatisfied and depressed at work. Thankfully, you can overcome a career slump by taking steps in a positive direction.

Seek a Promotion

If you are in a career slump, it may be time for a position upgrade. Staying in the same position can prove depressing over time, while seeking a promotion can quickly renew your passion for work. If you apply for and achieve a higher position within your company, you can use the opportunity to expand your skills and progress on your career path.

Reach out To Others At Work

You can reach out to others at work to make bouncing back from a career slump easier. Chances are that other people at your company are feeling the pangs of working in a fast-paced, demanding environment too. Developing strong working relationships with fellow employees and managers can be rewarding and comforting in times of high work stress. Your human resources department can offer you guidance and help you find a happy niche at work again.

Pursue Higher Education and Training

Some professionals feel dismal after receiving poor performance evaluations, and this often destroys their happiness at work. One way that you can resurrect yourself from a career slump is to expand your knowledge and learn new skills. Going to college to obtain a degree or certificate or taking a training class are effective ways to improve your performance and overcome any weaknesses at work. Once you gain the knowledge and know-how to improve your performance, going to work develops into an opportunity to shine instead of a time to be reprimanded.

Find a Mentor

If you are unsure where your career is headed, a mentor can help you find your way. Seek an influential mentor to help you re-establish yourself and recover from your career slump. Someone who has worked in your industry already is more likely to be aware of its ups and downs, and can therefore give you valuable pointers about overcoming adversity at work. Networking with your mentor’s contacts can also lead to unexpected career opportunities.

Reconsider your Perspective

If your career slump has you feeling depressed about life, take time to reconsider your perspective. Be grateful for the job that you have in such a tough employment market, and actively seek ways to make your job more interesting.

Most people who fall into a career slump can bounce back if they are willing to change their attitude and take advantage of the opportunities around them. If you are unable to make any significant changes for the better at work, you may want to consider pursuing alternative career options to reclaim a greater level of professional satisfaction.

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