Interviewed by the Wall Street Journal this morning on dealing with falling into a 'slump' at work:

"Some workers can pull out of a slump by asking for new responsibilities or challenges on the job, or brainstorming new ideas to streamline or improve their work, says Rich Gee, a Stamford, Conn., executive coach. In other cases, people who think they are in a slump realize they have simply grown tired of battling their own weaknesses or lack of interest, Mr. Gee says. In that case, a career change can be the answer."

I also spoke with Sue Shellenbarger at the WSJ about many other strategies about jumping out of a slump (but the kind editors at the WSJ are concise editors . . . so my stuff was trimmed):

How can you tell when you are in a slump?

SOS - Same Old Stuff - you find yourself doing the same things, day after day, with no change, no challenges.
Clock Watching - Late to work, long lunches, leave early and watch the clock while you're there.
You Find You Don't Care - More and more things are obstacles rather than opportunities. You complain more than compliment.

What are some techniques you can use to get out of a slump? Change The Game:

Stay in your position - Ask for increased responsibilities, brainstorm new ideas and efficiencies. Modify your job!
Leave your position, same company - Look for lateral positions that better use your talents. New people, new responsibilities.
Leave your company - You might need fresh air. We/Companies/Positions all change/evolve - what do you want to do now?

Have you worked with clients in slumps? Absolutely!

Client #1: Bored/Dying at current job - helped them move to running a full-time website/blog on a hot and growing area! Making big bucks now.
Client #2: In Marketing - didn't like the work or the people - helped them move to Sales in a key account position - they are loving getting out of the cubicle culture and interacting with clients.
Client #3: C-Level - Tired of the 'soap opera' politics that come with the position, now out doing incredibly creative things with non-profits.

Here's the entire article.

Isn't the word 'slump' one of the ugliest words in the English language? I don't want one! Neither do you!

P.S. Sue is one of the nicest and most professional reporters I know. When she asks for help, she delivers. Thank you Sue!

If you want to subscribe to the WSJ - just click here - it's the best resource you can buy to help you with your career!