What to Do When You Feel Stuck at Work

Feeling stuck at work can be frustrating and even discouraging. You might be showing up every day, doing the work, but not feeling challenged, inspired, or sure about your next step. The good news? Feeling stuck isn’t a dead end — it’s a signal that it’s time to take action.

Here’s how to get unstuck and start moving your career forward again.

Step 1: Audit Your Skills and Goals

Start by taking inventory of where you are today. Write down:

• Your key strengths and skills

• What you enjoy most about your work

• What drains you or feels like “busywork”

• Where you want to be 1–3 years from now

  
  

This exercise gives you a clear starting point and helps you decide if you need to grow in your current role or start planning a bigger move.

Step 2: Take on Stretch Assignments

One of the best ways to get unstuck is to push yourself into new territory. Volunteer for a project that scares you a little — one that forces you to learn new skills or work with a new team.

💡 Example: If you’re usually behind the scenes, offer to present in the next team meeting. If you work in operations, ask to shadow a product manager for a day. These small risks build confidence and open doors.

Top Tips for Overcoming Workplace Challenges: Practice Mindfulness, Change Your Routine, Identify Blockers, Seek Input, Exercise, and Set a 10-Minute Timer.

Step 3: Seek Feedback

Sometimes we feel stuck simply because we don’t know how we’re doing. Ask your boss or peers:

• “What’s one area where I could grow?”

• “How could I add more value to the team?”

This shows initiative and often uncovers opportunities you might not have considered.

Step 4: Build Relationships

Isolation can make feeling stuck worse. Invest time in building relationships:

• Have coffee chats with people in other departments

• Attend company events

• Connect with peers on LinkedIn

Opportunities often come through people, not job boards — and the more connected you are, the more options you’ll see.

Step 5: Make a Plan

Once you have clarity, create a simple action plan:

• What new skills you’ll develop

• What roles or projects you want to pursue

• What timeline you’re aiming for

Having a plan — even a rough one — turns “stuck” into “in progress.”

Final Thoughts (Stuck at work)

Feeling stuck doesn’t mean you’re failing — it means it’s time to grow. With self-reflection, a few bold moves, and a clear plan, you can turn frustration into momentum.

📅 Want a personalized roadmap and advice to get unstuck? Let’s map out your next step together at EricSunkelCoaching.com/services.