Work Has You In A Rut? Here’s What To Do When Languishing.

What to do when the only way to describe how you’re feeling at work is “blah”.

By Aqilah Naqlis on 2023-11-27 at 7:12 AM

Updated on 2025-01-31 at 3:14 AM

It’s unrealistic to expect to feel motivated at work all the time, even if you used to love what you’re doing.

If you’ve found yourself feeling disconnected and lackluster about work but don’t find yourself in any obvious distress, you could be languishing. In psychology, “languishing” can be described as the opposite of “flourishing”, a feeling of positivity toward life.


How to Break Free from Languishing at Work

1. Reflect on What’s Missing

The first step to overcoming languishing is identifying the root cause of your lack of motivation. Ask yourself:

  • Do I feel challenged in my role, or has my work become repetitive?
  • Am I learning new things, or do I feel stagnant in my career growth?
  • Do I feel valued by my team and employer, or do I feel like just another cog in the machine?
  • Does my work align with my long-term goals and values?

Taking time to pinpoint what’s missing allows you to take intentional actions to address it. It could be as simple as requesting new projects, or as major as considering a career switch.


2. Reignite Your Sense of Purpose

Feeling unmotivated is often linked to losing sight of your purpose. When was the last time you felt excited about your work? Think back to projects where you felt proud and fulfilled.

Try reconnecting with your career aspirations by:

  • Seeking new responsibilities that challenge you.
  • Aligning your work with a bigger mission that excites you.
  • Exploring side projects or hobbies that fuel your passion.

Your job should give you a sense of meaning—whether it’s helping others, solving complex problems, or creating something new. If your current role no longer excites you, consider taking Hiredly’s Work Personality Test to discover career paths that truly match your strengths and values.


3. Shake Up Your Routine

Monotony can fuel languishing. When work becomes too predictable, it’s easy to feel like you’re on autopilot. Change things up by:

  • Trying new ways to approach your tasks.
  • Rearranging your work environment for a fresh perspective.
  • Setting small challenges to keep yourself engaged.
  • Seeking mentorship or collaborating with new colleagues.

A small shift in perspective or daily habits can make a big difference in how engaged you feel.


4. Invest in Personal Growth

If you’re feeling stuck, focus on developing new skills or exploring career paths that align with your evolving interests. You don’t have to make a drastic change overnight, but taking small steps toward personal growth can boost your confidence and reignite your motivation.

Consider:

  • Taking online courses to develop new expertise.
  • Attending industry events to expand your knowledge.
  • Asking for stretch assignments to challenge yourself.

When you’re constantly learning and growing, your work feels more dynamic and fulfilling.


5. Build Meaningful Work Connections

A positive work culture can make a huge difference in how you feel at work. If you’re feeling disengaged, connect with your colleagues—sometimes, the right company can reignite your passion.

  • Set up casual coffee chats with coworkers.
  • Join networking groups in your industry.
  • Engage in collaborative projects outside your usual responsibilities.

If you’re looking for a supportive community, join Hiredly’s Young Leaders Community, a space for peer networking, knowledge sharing, and career growth. Surrounding yourself with motivated professionals can inspire you to push forward.


6. Consider If a Career Shift Is Needed

If nothing seems to reignite your motivation, it may be time to evaluate your job fit. Ask yourself:

  • Am I excited about my career’s future, or do I dread going to work?
  • Do I feel recognized and appreciated for my contributions?
  • Would I feel happier and more fulfilled in a different company or industry?

The Monday Blues and Sunday Scaries are less likely to happen when you’re working at a company with an environment that works well for you! Reveal the truth behind a company’s work culture by asking these 10 questions.

Need more career tips that are great for your mental health? Read 5 Underrated Career Tips That Are Great for Your Mental Health.


Your career should be fulfilling, engaging, and aligned with your goals. If you’re feeling stagnant, take the next step toward reclaiming your motivation by exploring new opportunities on Hiredly.

By Aqilah Naqlis on 2023-11-27 at 7:12 AM