6 Ways You Can Get Out of a Career Rut

Tired disappointed woman working at office desk with a laptop, connection and computer problems concept
Image via iStock.

Whether Gen Z or Baby Boomer, we’ve all been there. The much-dreaded career rut is an affliction that many of us professionals have dealt with at least once in our lives. However, feeling stuck in a job comes with opportunities. Recognizing stagnancy in a career can open doors for new changes. 

Katie Sanders from The Enterprisers Project talked to IT leaders about advice they would give to those who still find themselves in a rut. Here’s what they had to say: 

1. Your journey is not linear 

There is no right way to go about pursuing a career, and paths are rarely a straight line. Often, professionals may encounter a fork in the road. Instead of pushing forward, sometimes it can be refreshing to go off the beaten path.

2. Act first, get inspired later  

Some people wait for inspiration before springing into action. But an object at rest stays at rest, and sometimes taking the plunge is the only way to spark creativity.  

3. Have passion 

Addressing your issues with passion will help you meet your goal.  

“I believe that passion is at the heart of great work. If you are passionate about the problem you are working to solve, doors will open up for you.” said Shailesh Kumar, SVP of Engineering at ClickUp.  

4. Consider what you want to do  

Sometimes you must step outside your comfort zone and consider what you “want” to do, over what you “have” to do. E.G. Nadhan, Global Architect Leader at Red Hat says that having a “startup” mindset helps make this much-needed pivot in your career.  

5. Have agility 

It’s important to adapt to ever-changing technologies in your office and career field so your skills can stay fresh. President of StarCIO Isaac Sacolick tells The Enterprisers Project that it’s necessary to continue investing in learning and relationship-building to get out of the rut. He also emphasizes being open to feedback.

6. Envision the future  

Taking a step back and asking yourself where you want to be in the next five years helps you prioritize your career goals. Collaborating with family and friends who can toss ideas around is a good way to find direction. Author Vicky Oliver of 301 Smart Answers to Tough Interview Questions emphasizes the importance of facing your fears.  

“Never be afraid to take baby steps—possibly twenty of them—to achieve the career pivot of your dreams,” she said.  

Read more about how you can get out of the rut on The Enterprisers Project.  


Tess Vigeland offers Time Magazine advice on how to dig yourself out of a career rut.


Wilmington University, the sponsor of VISTA Today — Career Corner, is a private, open-access institution that serves more than 20,000 adults, including those seeking advancement through higher education and traditional-age students who aspire to become successful global citizens.

One of the most affordable private universities in the Delaware Valley, WilmU is committed to the idea that finishing an undergraduate degree or obtaining a master’s or doctoral degree can be affordable and accessible.

The University offers over 200 accredited and career-relevant degree and certificate programs in flexible online and hybrid formats designed to accommodate adults of all ages who work full- or part-time or juggle demanding career, family, and personal schedules.

Learn more about WilmU here or register to attend one of the University’s webinars. You will find information about academic programs, flexible scheduling options, tuition, admissions, student services, athletics, and more.

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