Have you stayed through a crappy period of work and had it pay off? My job is “in a two year slump” as my boss has put it and I haven’t figured out my next step. I’m wondering if there’s any way to get something out of this period... or if I’m being naive and should just jump ship.

I got laid off a year ago when my employer moved out of state. I quickly landed a job with one of the biggest employers in my field in the area. I didn’t love the work so I’ve been looking the right opportunity elsewhere since. In July, when I was waiting to hear if I got the promotion I was asked to apply for, our group was cut in half, promotions cancelled and raises frozen. Last month there was another round of layoffs. People are quitting every week. Supposedly the company is doing fine financially but trimming in anticipation of going public.

I didn’t like the work much when I started with the company and it’s only gotten worse. I think they really like me and want to reward/retain me but have nothing they can offer at the moment.

On the positive side, the job is close to home. I work normal office hours. I don’t think about work outside the office (barring these layoffs). Pay is decent. I also don’t have to travel which is uncommon in my field. Another positive is that I don’t have to work so I could quit if this situation becomes too toxic for me.

What should I be focused on in this crappy time? Has anyone made lemonade out of lemons like this?