This year we also learned ofthe Great Reshuffle, which refers to workers hopping occupations or industries altogether.

What we hear a lot less about are the folks who are stuck.

I work with them, you probably know a few, or you might be one of them yourself.

Their familys health needs were too great (and the coverage too good) to leave.

In both circumstances, the employees were stuck.

Wanting to quit and knowing you cant is stressful, even depressing.

Taking care of yourself is priority one.

Here are a few tips.

Some research points to the techniqueimproving mental health.

Its widely touted as a strategy for building resilience and resolving that feeling of being stuck.

But for some people, gratitude lists dont work.

For these folks, the lists feel fake, and the exercise is unhelpful.

I find they may also be people who tend to have a darker sense of humor.

These folks might get more out of acould be worse journal.

This is anegative visualizationexercise that dates back to the Stoic philosophers from ancient Greece and Rome.

For some, this approach induces gratitude in a more authentic way.

It will deplete your energy and leave you with very little at the end of the day.

This means youre not just tired but also probably a grump to be around.

So take frequent breaks.

The breaks dont have to be long.

Youll have energy leftover at the end of the day for them too.

This also speaks to the importance of being ready to act when things do move in a new direction.

So prepare now just in case an opportunity crosses your path, because eventually, one will.

Can you describe what you want in a new job?

How about your strengths and what you contribute to a team?

Is your resume updated?

Have you met with someone recently to discuss your career aspirations?

Being prepared means you answered yes to all these questions.

If you said no, you now know where to start putting in some time and effort.

A lot of career satisfaction comes from having a sense of progress and forward momentum.

This is why its so jarring to be in a job you cant get escape.