The dangers of staying in a job that feels stagnant

There’s a quote that goes- ‘In a job, one should either learn or earn, or ideally, both.

However, many of us have found ourselves in situations where neither seems to be happening, leaving us feeling stuck and uncertain about our professional future.

Jecinta Waridi did not need long to find out if this was true. She experienced an unexpected plot twist just months after graduation in 2018 in her first engagement.

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“Just fresh out of campus, I got an internship role that I hoped would mould my skills. While I was hired for a PR role- without a clear job description- this soon turned out to shift towards marketing and advertising. At first, I did not mind the responsibilities, but I soon found myself executing administrative duties too,” she says.

In addition to performing two roles, her hours changed, and for all the work she was doing, her pay did not match up.

“During this period, I experienced delays in stipends, worked prolonged hours, got late from work, and was still expected at work the next day at normal work times. Above all this, the pay did not match my expectations. This impacted my health both physically and mentally, and I had to quit,” she recalls.

“Things took a while before they streamlined. I asked myself questions like ‘what do I need to transition into my next role or what self-employment opportunities were available should my plan A not work?’,” says the Communications and PR professional now turned entrepreneur.

Now a thriving entrepreneur, Waridi believes her decision to pursue self-employment may not be in vain as she continues to utilize her marketing, advertising, and branding skills while acquiring new ones.

According to Eunice Victoria, a Career Coach, there are several dangers associated with remaining in a job where one has hit the ceiling.

"When you're stuck in a role that's no longer fulfilling, it can take a significant toll on your mental health," she explains.

"The feeling of stagnation can lead to a toxic mind set where you begin to view your workplace negatively, potentially even feeling that the organization is working against you."

She points out that this situation can also breed jealousy as you watch peers advance in their careers while you remain stagnant.

“This combination of negative emotions - frustration, resentment, and envy - can be incredibly damaging. It not only affects your current performance but can also erode your long-term career aspirations and self-confidence. As a professional, you risk shutting down your motivation and potentially killing your professional dreams,” says the career coach.

Victoria however, notes that one can come out of this by first acknowledging the stagnation and writing down their dreams and aspirations, which helps clarify what one truly wants.

“While in the process, this too may be the best time to seek out a mentor or someone out of your workplace to discuss your situation. Usually, these people offer a different and valuable perspective to take home.

Another tip that Victoria offers is to come up with a plan, which might include updating your CV, discussing your concerns with HR, or requesting more challenging responsibilities.

“Finally, don't hesitate to have an open conversation with your boss about your career goals and how you can grow within the organization,” she says.

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Victoria concludes by saying, “When you've communicated your concerns and nothing changes, that should be your cue to seek better opportunities elsewhere. However, it's important to approach this transition professionally and amicably whenever possible.”