What can you do when you’re stuck in a job you hate and can’t leave without another one lined up? This is a situation I’m seeing more and more professionals face. It can be an effort just to get through the workday, and then there’s nothing left in the tank to search for jobs at night or on weekends.

How can you start preparing for your exit in ways that feel productive and proactive? If you’ve read any of my previous posts, you know I’m a big believer in taking small steps. Even 10 minutes of a strategic activity a day (or week!) can have impact and create momentum. And perhaps most importantly, it gives you a sense of control.

Here are a few suggestions for bite-sized actions you can take today:

1. Think about your connections and the people in your network that you respect and trust. (Don’t forget about friends and family!) Reach out to one of them this week and let them know, confidentially, that you are planning to leave your job and would like their support. Maybe their company is hiring, or they have a friend who can introduce you to their recruitment team. Ask for suggestions of others you can talk to in your target industry.
2. Look at your resume. Are there new or increased responsibilities you’ve taken on since you last updated it? Are your top technical skills and programs listed on it? Have you received any new certifications? Start tracking the updates you will eventually need to make, 1 or 2 items at a time. While the idea of updating your resume might be overwhelming right now, collecting your facts is a productive way to start.
3. Go through your work files, emails, and Slack for positive performance reviews, compliments from customers or team members, and outcomes that you’re really proud of.  Start compiling these accomplishments, 1 or 2 items at a time. Not only will these be great talking points for your resume and for interviewing, they’re also a quick confidence boost now, when you need it.
4. Reach out to a friend. Contact the person who can provide a sympathetic, non-judgmental ear. Call the pal who knows just what to say to make you laugh. Text that practical person who always has good ideas, or the one who’s always up for a long walk.

You might find that once you start taking these small steps, you’ll have a bit more energy to take more steps, more often. As your motivation and momentum grow, you are also taking back control.

You may be in a bad work situation now, but you are not stuck. Every productive action you take, no matter how small, is a step forward… and toward a better opportunity.

Elyse Pipitone is the owner of Blooming Careers Coaching. She helps individuals who feel stuck at their jobs to move forward and take back control of their careers. Schedule your free introductory career conversation here:  bloomingcareerscoaching/introductory-career-conversation