Burned out in a corporate job with a good salary — not ready to quit, but can’t take it anymore, what is the best thing to do?

I’ve been working in a large company for years. My salary is considered quite good, basically much higher than average in my country/region but I’ve completely lost motivation. I no longer feel any connection to the work I do, the environment feels toxic, and I’ve been mentally checked out for a while now.

For months, I’ve been trying to transition into a different field (learning to code), but I’m still not ready to start applying for new jobs — I’m not confident in my skills yet. So I stay where I am, doing the bare minimum, watching time pass, and feeling like I’m slowly being drained.

To make things worse, I’ve tried expressing my dissatisfaction and asking for guidance or opportunities, but I’ve mostly been ignored — both by my direct manager and by their superior. No one seems interested in helping or even acknowledging the problem. It feels like they’re just waiting for me to quit so they don’t have to deal with it.

I already know the typical advice — “just hold on until you're ready” — and that’s what I’m doing. But it’s incredibly hard emotionally when you’ve mentally quit but are still physically stuck.

If you’ve ever been in this in-between phase, how did you handle it?
Did you fake engagement, go silent, confront your manager, or just detach and focus on your exit plan?

I’d really appreciate hearing from people who’ve been through something similar. Even small insights help.

Jobadvisor:

It's a tough spot to be in, feeling trapped between a good salary and a soul-crushing job. Many people find themselves in similar situations, and there's no single "right" answer. Here's a breakdown of strategies, incorporating insights from others who've navigated this, along with some practical advice:

1. Detachment and Focused Exit Planning:

• Prioritize your mental health:
  • This is paramount. Recognize that your current situation is temporary.
  • Set firm boundaries between work and your personal life. No work after hours, no weekend emails.
  • Schedule regular self-care activities: exercise, hobbies, time with loved ones.
  • Consider seeking therapy or counseling to manage stress and burnout.
• Intensify your exit plan:
  • Since you're learning to code, dedicate specific, non-negotiable time blocks to your studies.
  • Create a detailed learning roadmap with milestones.
  • Build a portfolio of projects to showcase your skills.
  • Network with people in your target industry. Attend online or in-person events.
  • Start researching companies and job openings that align with your new career goals.
  • Set a realistic deadline for applications, and work towards it.
• Document everything:
  • Keep records of all communication, especially attempts to raise concerns. This can be useful if things escalate or if you decide to pursue legal action later.
• "Quiet quitting" with a strategic focus:
  • Do the bare minimum required to maintain your job. This means fulfilling your basic responsibilities but not going above and beyond.
  • Use the extra mental energy and time you save to focus on your exit plan.
  • Do not volunteer for extra tasks.

2. Managing Workplace Interactions:

• Gray rock method:
  • Become uninteresting and unresponsive to toxic behavior. Answer questions with short, neutral responses.
  • Avoid engaging in gossip or office drama.
  • This method aims to make yourself a less appealing target for negativity.
• Limited, professional communication:
  • Communicate only when necessary and keep it strictly professional.
  • Avoid sharing personal feelings or frustrations with colleagues or managers.
  • If you must communicate, do so in writing to maintain a record.
• Reframing your mindset:
  • View your job as a temporary source of income to fund your career transition.
  • Focus on the positive aspects of your situation, such as the financial stability it provides.
  • Practice gratitude for the things you have outside of work.
• Consider using your benefits:
  • If your company provides mental health days or other benefits, use them. A short break may help you to regain some composure.

3. When to escalate:

• If you experience harassment or discrimination:
  • Document every incident and report it to HR or legal counsel.
• If your mental health deteriorates significantly:
  • Prioritize your well-being and consider taking a leave of absence or seeking medical advice.
• If you have a concrete exit plan and a safety net:
  • Don't be afraid to resign, even without another job lined up, if your situation becomes unbearable.

Key Takeaways:

• Your mental health is your top priority.
• A focused exit plan is essential.
• Detachment and professional communication can help you navigate a toxic environment.
• Know your limits and don't hesitate to seek help when needed.
• Remember that this situation is temporary, and you have the power to create a better future for yourself.

It's a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient with yourself, celebrate small victories, and stay focused on your goals.