5 ways to get your stalled job back on track
We have often heard people complaining of the Monday morning blues. But do you feel that way all week and find it difficult to drag yourself to work every day? This demotivation could be because you feel stagnated in your job. Although it can be daunting to find the motivation to take charge and turn the situation around, it is important to pull the gears of your career. Here’s how to get things rolling:
Take a break
A good way to start getting your motivation back in place is by taking a break. While on the break, think about why you feel stagnated. What is holding you back? Has there been a recent change in leadership with whom you have not yet established a smooth working relationship? Or, are there confusions and disagreements about goals and targets of your work? It is also important to examine if the work you are doing is still as relevant for the organisation's growth as it used to be. Based on this initial exercise, go through some rigorous self-assessment, including aptitude tests, peer discussions and a mentoring process.
Open up to a colleague
Peer discussions can be an effective method for introspection and understanding the larger environment of the organisation. The colleague you choose for this discussion must be supportive, trustworthy, knowledgeable and not in a role competitive with yours. Such discussions can throw light on how your colleagues perceive you and the value you bring to the organisation.
Find a mentor
Finding a good mentor can be the most crucial step in revitalising your stagnating job. He/she would ideally help you in developing skills, behaviour and insights. A mentor can easily identify and help nurture your latent talent and potential, which even you may be unaware of. It is wise to choose a mentor who is savvy about the internal politics of the organisation. Such insights can help in building effective network within the organisation. They can help in dealing with difficult bosses, too. It is not uncommon for a job to stall due to friction with the boss. Often, the mentor can also be your role model which helps in keeping your motivation high.
Focus on your goals
You need to also focus on the future and set specific goals. Take time to talk to your immediate leaders about your ambitions and co-create a plan to achieve them. Have an open mind and ask for feedback. Your boss can help you understand why your job has stalled and where you fall short. Be open to accepting new roles, even if they may look like a side-track than a promotion. Consider all possible prospects the new role will offer before coming to a decision.
Acquire a new skill
New skills and credentials can boost the revitalisation process, especially if gaps in relevant skills for promotions are identified. An initiative to acquire new skills also sends a positive message to others that you still have the drive. It may be important to prove to your peers, your boss and others in the leadership that you are still in high momentum and can be productive. Unfortunately, you might have to prove this while you still feel stagnated in order to break the viscous cycle. The best way to do this would be by targeting the low-hanging fruit. Find something easy with quick results to gain the confidence of your colleagues.
With a little bit of rigour and determination, you can surely revitalise your stalled job. All you need is focus, a carefully charted roadmap and some careful strategising. Most importantly, don’t hesitate to ask for help.
