When you fall out of love with your career: Understanding identity shifts
Have you ever wondered why you no longer feel excitement for the work you used to love?
This confusion is more common than you might think.
It happens because you’re not the same person you were when you started your career. You’re not who you were a year ago, or even a week ago for that matter!
You’re constantly evolving – your interests, priorities, and perspectives shift over time. So, it’s not surprising that you might outgrow your job – or at least aspects of it.
Why identity shifts matter in your career
As we move through different ages, stages, and life phases, we naturally let go of things that no longer fit. We change as individuals, so it stands to reason that our work needs to evolve with us.
Understanding that identity shifts are normal, it’s important to reassess occasionally to check whether your work choices are in alignment with who you have become.
Self-reflection is key. If you don’t recognize that it’s you who has changed, you might look in the wrong places for answers about why you feel the way you do, why your work no longer feels right.
For example:
You might blame your boss or team for your dissatisfaction, when the real issue is that your values or interests have shifted.
You might feel unmotivated because the skills you once enjoyed using no longer energize you.
You might feel stuck in a role that once felt right but no longer fits who you are today.
If you don’t take time to reassess, you might end up forcing yourself to stay in a career that no longer serves you – or worse, blaming yourself for feeling this way. But when you reflect on what matters to you, you’ll be far better placed to recognise what needs to change in order to create a more fulfilling work life for your current version of you.
How to navigate the change
Acknowledging that it’s normal to outgrow a job allows you to move forward with confidence, rather than guilt. The goal isn’t necessarily a dramatic career change; even small shifts toward alignment can make a huge difference in your sense of fulfilment.
Here are three practical steps to take:
Reflect on your values, interests, and what fulfils you today – not five or 10 years ago.
Consider whether your current role can evolve with you or if a change is necessary.
Seek support through career coaching to help clarify your next steps.
You’re allowed to change – and so is your career
Redesigning your career in line with who you are now is one of the most powerful things you can do for your well-being.
Ultimately, if you acknowledge and embrace how you’ve changed, you’ll be able to find new opportunities for fulfilment, energy, and engagement in your work again.
So, if you’re feeling disconnected from your job, don’t ignore it. Give yourself permission to outgrow what no longer fits and explore what truly excites you now.
Take the next step
Curious to see how your current work might be affecting your wellbeing? Take my free Career Wellbeing Quiz to gain clarity on where you’re at – and if you’d like support to reassess and refresh your career, let’s chat.