Kündigung: „Ich langweile mich zu Tode in meinem Job“ – Die Gefahr der inneren Kündigung

Johanna Kohler, a 36-year-old marketing manager, is struggling with a lack of motivation at her job. She finds herself daydreaming and seeking diversion, but remains in her position due to fear of taking a job setback. Despite having a good track record and experience, Kohler is finding it difficult to secure a new role, leading to her remaining in a position that increasingly demotivates her.

The issue is one that many share in the current job market, as many are reluctant to take the leap despite being willing to change jobs. According to a survey by job portal Xing, over a third of the 3,400 respondents intend to change employers, but only eight percent have concrete plans to do so. Job security is the primary reason for remaining in a position, while only 39 percent value appreciation from their employer.

Career expert Stefanie Bickert from job platform Indeed notes that security has become a much higher priority for many during challenging times. Companies are not only hiring fewer people but also reducing positions due to economic slowdown. Turning a job search into a risk, Bickert warns. For those who want to change jobs but have no prospects, the risk is even greater.

Johanna Kohler's situation is a new challenge for her, as she has switched jobs before for new challenges. Initially, she was pleased to move to her current employer, but things changed when the company was acquired, culture shifted, and she was stripped of responsibility. She now spends her days sending out resumes without much success and questioning her worth.

Maria Bergler, a career coach and former McKinsey consultant, has seen many such cases. Many are looking for new opportunities, but in middle management, particularly in the industry, options are currently very limited. The fear of unemployment is intense, leading to staying in unsuitable jobs, creating a vicious cycle of low self-worth and no job prospects.

Thomas Rigotti, an organizational psychologist and director of the Leibniz Institute for Resilience Research, speaks of a "workplace login" – the feeling of having no choice. Psychologically, it is not staying that is problematic, but the lack of options. Those affected experience less control, think more critically, and develop a growing sense of futility.

Studies show that the well-being of people who want to change jobs but cannot declines significantly. Rigotti cautions of a vicious circle where helplessness reduces the willingness to seek solutions, and the lack of change further reinforces helplessness. The impact varies in the workplace, with some employees becoming psychologically withdrawn, identifying less with the organization, or avoiding additional responsibility.

Others try to maintain their performance but end up with exhaustion, rumination, and lack of recovery. Resilience can help, but should not be mistaken for an ability to endure indefinitely.