Feeling Stuck at Work? You’re Not Alone – And It Might Be Time to Move On

In today’s dynamic job market, it’s not uncommon for workers to feel unfulfilled in their current roles. A recent survey by Resume Now has shed light on this issue, revealing that 60% of workers are staying in jobs longer than they would like. This growing sense of stagnation is driven by a variety of concerns, primarily financial. For 35% of employees, the fear of taking a pay cut is the top reason they hesitate to leave their roles. Meanwhile, 34% are afraid of facing financial instability if they make a move.

Yet despite this apprehension, there’s a widespread belief that a career change could lead to greater satisfaction. The data shows that 66% of workers think a switch could make them happier, but only 18% are actively searching for new roles. Just 13% have successfully taken the leap into a new career path.

The reasons behind the desire for change are clear. Better pay tops the list, cited by 57% of respondents. Other key motivators include improved work-life balance (29%) and the opportunity to work remotely (19%).

Fortunately, changing careers no longer means starting from scratch. Skills-based hiring is on the rise, allowing professionals to leverage their existing abilities in new industries or roles. With more high-paying remote jobs and evolving workplace flexibility, career shifts are not only more accessible—they’re increasingly seen as a smart move toward long-term wellbeing.

“Sixty percent are staying in roles longer than they'd like, which is significant.”



On a recent people2people live stream, Temporary Specialist Recruitment Team Leader Aiden Boast explored the topic further, drawing attention to this growing workplace sentiment and what it means for both employees and employers.

“So looking at the numbers, we've had a recent survey from Resume Now, and it revealed that many workers feel stuck in jobs they no longer want,” said Aiden. “Sixty percent are staying in roles longer than they'd like, which is significant.”

For many workers, the decision to stay put is less about comfort and more about caution. Aiden explained, “Financial concerns are a big barrier, with thirty-five percent worried about taking a pay cut and thirty-four percent fearing financial instability.”

Even with such hurdles, there’s a clear desire for change. Aiden highlighted that “sixty-six percent believe a career change could make them happier, yet only eighteen percent are actively searching, and just thirteen percent have made the switch.” These statistics suggest a widespread tension between aspiration and action—many want change, but few are confident enough to pursue it.

The good news is that barriers to change are lower than they once were. Aiden noted, “With skills-based hiring becoming more common, changing careers doesn’t always mean starting from scratch.” Employers are increasingly valuing transferable skills over linear experience, which creates new avenues for workers to transition into more satisfying roles without beginning at entry-level.

Workers’ motivations for considering change also reflect today’s evolving professional priorities. While better pay remains the top driver (57%), people are also seeking balance (29%) and the freedom of remote work (19%). “Career shifts are now more accepted than they were five years ago,” Aiden said. “And many see them as a way to improve their quality of life.”

He also pointed to a trend towards greater flexibility in the job market. “As high-paying remote jobs grow and employers focus more on skills, more people are consciously making the leap,” he added. It’s an encouraging shift that suggests the traditional fear of change is being replaced by thoughtful, values-driven decisions.

For employers, these trends are a signal to rethink how they attract and retain talent. Workers are not just seeking jobs—they’re seeking purpose, lifestyle fit, and progression. If organisations want to hold onto top talent, they need to align with these evolving expectations.

What You Can Do If You’re Feeling Stuck

If you’re one of the many professionals feeling trapped in a job that no longer fulfils you, the good news is you’re not alone—and there are concrete steps you can take to regain control of your career:

1. Clarify your goals.
Take time to reflect on what you really want from your career. Is it better pay, more flexibility, or the chance to do more meaningful work? Understanding your priorities will help guide your next steps.

2. Focus on your transferable skills.
You don’t need to start over to start fresh. Identify the core strengths and experiences you’ve developed—communication, leadership, problem-solving—and explore how they align with roles in different industries.

3. Update your CV and online presence.
Tailor your CV to highlight your most relevant skills and achievements. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and reflects your openness to new opportunities.

4. Upskill where it matters.
Consider short courses or certifications that can bridge any gaps between where you are now and where you want to be. This doesn’t need to be expensive or time-consuming—targeted learning can make a big impact.

5. Start networking.
Connect with people in the industries or roles you’re interested in. Ask questions, seek advice, and learn more about the realities of those jobs. These conversations can open doors and help you feel more confident about making a move.

6. Don’t let fear stall your progress.
While it’s normal to feel nervous about change, staying in a role that makes you unhappy can take a toll on your mental health and overall wellbeing. Take small, manageable steps toward change—progress is better than perfection.

7. Seek professional guidance.
Working with a recruiter or career coach can give you tailored insights, help you navigate the job market, and build a plan for transition that’s right for you.