I'm 39 and just feel like I'm in a rut. My career is going fine, but it just doesn't excite me the way to used to. Sometimes I think changing jobs or moving would shake things up but I don't know if that is a long-term solution. Are these feelings of boredom and unfulfillment a me problem or just part of being an "adult"?

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I definitely hear you, and for better or worse, I don’t think there’s one correct answer to your question. Everyone feels that way sometimes but the extent, cause and how to fix it varies. Before changing jobs, maybe try shaking things up outside work - attending classes or groups of things that interest you. Or you could talk to your team about picking up some “extracurricular” projects to see if you enjoy a change of pace at work. Maybe part of it is burnout and setting boundaries and/or taking PTO would help. I’m not sure but wishing you the best of luck!

My partner is 37 and he's been feeling the same thing. He's expressed to me that he's tired of the same routine of just going to work, coming home and spending the rest of his nights on the Xbox. I work from home, so I'm just always home. We've been trying to figure out things that could help with breaking our routines, such as starting knew hobbies (I've been picking up reading) or finding more things to do around town after work (finances permitting). We both have a holiday break/vacation coming up, so I'm hoping that will help with the boredom between us and the funk he's been in lately.

It is not uncommon to have feelings of repetition. Groundhog Day is the way I frame it too. I am right there with you. One psychologist says that a person must carry a load or burden in order to engage their purpose. However, consider the question from a positive angle. Consider reading a book by Seth Godin called "The Dip." The Dip deals mostly with your career. Have you ever watched the movie "Secret life of Walter Mitty?" Watch it immediately... it will force you to face the feelings you are having. Leonard DiVinci had many careers and so can you. Col. Sanders started his famous franchise in his senior years. Is running away the right decision? It is if you know it is not about defeat, but instead it is a victory. You have cleared all of the levels of your current game in life and you simply want a fresh perspective to engage your brain. There is no right or wrong answer and that is where your safety feelings are being triggered. Get rid of that guilt feeling!!!! Boldly go and shape a new path because it will ignite your senses and it does not matter how long it takes because the journey itself will rebirth you. Who, what, where, when, why, how.... which of these questions are most important to you? If it is "Where," then choose the most beautiful location in the world and get an apartment or rent a room if you are single. The only gatekeeper is your own fear. Start fresh.... the adventure begins.... there and back again. Seize the day!

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