When your job is ‘too easy’

Dear Amy: I am 35 and the last 10 years, I’ve been at the same company, gradually working my way up to senior management. I have a large, high-performing team, and we typically hit all of our department goals. We have a great reputation, and are seen as the team that “gets it done” every single time.

Here’s the thing — my job is too easy. I do what I’m supposed to do, and I do it well, but it’s not challenging. Most days drag on for what feels like forever. I don’t hate my job at all, but I’m not in love with it.

I’ve thought about leaving, but other companies can’t touch my salary and I don’t want to give up my lifestyle.

I’ve talked to my boss about expanding my responsibilities, but anything he’s given me is never challenging for long. I’ve taken professional development courses but it doesn’t solve my dayto-day boredom.

My husband says I should be grateful that I have a high-paying job that is not stressful and should settle. That feels wrong to me — I like having challenging days that push me out of my comfort zone, and I feel like I’m too young for another 30 years of this.

Is it OK to settle? — Sigh

Dear Sigh: No, it is not OK to settle, mainly because you don’t want to. Surely there are initiatives in your company, or your industry, that will allow you to expand your reach and performance, while also challenging you and keeping you engaged. If these initiatives don’t exist, you could create them.

Yes, it might be worth it for you to take a pay cut with a more challenging organization, as long as there is room for growth. At your age, you can afford to take some chances.

Outside of work, volunteering with an organization related to your areas of interest would put some of your passion to the test, while helping others. Your organizational and teambuilding skills could transform a nonprofit.

Another idea is for you to set a timeline, save aggressively, and then look into starting your own business. You seem to have the aptitude and attitude of a successful entrepreneur.