Why You Lose Your Ambition in Work as You Age

French actor Maurice Chevalier once said that “old age isn't so bad when you consider the alternative.” He wasn't referring to death, not even ailments afflicting elderly people (e.g. arthritis). It could be U-bend, where adults would redefine their definition of happiness. It won't be the ones who just got their college diplomas and the yuppies who weren't thinking of settling down. Yet. The term would apply to the thirty-something professionals who have lose their ambition in work.

U-bend isn't uncommon in the work force during the last ten years or so. Generation Y doesn't think they have something to prove to anyone especially the members of Generation X. They don't want to burn out, as they feel like they can't sustain the level that they showed during their younger years. And it would be natural to take a break (or hit the sack) whenever they were dead tired from the long hours (of work). It isn't alarming as it seems to be, but there must be reasons that could enlighten those who don't have a clue about it. (Either it's their first job or they are too busy to pay attention to body signals.)

Pursuit of Happiness: Factors That Would Make Employees Think Twice

Raise a family. Many people would have kids when they reach their 30s. It's a 24/7 responsibility, prompting most professionals to shift their attention to their (growing) family. It can exhaust anyone, but the rewards would be countless. In this regard, older professionals aren't too anxious about wanting to be on the top of their profession. (Let's be clear about this one: They aren't slacking at their job. It would be natural for them to set aside themselves and let their younger colleagues show their competitive side.) A growing number of male professionals have been sharing domestic duties with their spouses, which should be another reason behind their gradual loss of drive.

The body ages as one gets older. This is not a symptom of a mid-life crisis, but rather signs that the human body isn't invincible as one would suspect all along. A decrease in the body's metabolic rate would mean it would require strict dieting and frequent workout to eliminate those love handles. The (body) organs would be less efficient, which should indicate that older people can't overeat on anything (or everything that they can see on the table). Likewise, there must be a limit to alcohol consumption. Sleep is another thing to consider here; senior citizens would claim that they are fine with a few hours of sleep. It would still be on a case-to-case basis, as anyone who is keeping a busy schedule still needs eight hours of sleep.

Fulfillment extends beyond the office. It requires effort, if not lots of passion, to keep on doing the same routine for years. Not everyone is fortunate to have a job that they really love to do while necessity prompts some to find any job (and do it). Work-life balance, which emphasizes the need to have other interests aside from work-related tasks, will ensure that everyone will be enthusiastic about what they're doing. U-bend would reveal the mid-life crisis, which happens to anyone. It can be on a personal level, which can lead to a painful decision at times. It can be a turning point, which can change everything. Some rather keep a sensible approach, believing that it would pass sooner or later. It can be a whim, if not some time. Some may notice it while others would ignore it.

5 Steps to Keep Up the Ambition

Exercise regularly. You need all the energy to keep you going through the day, and you might require more during a very long day. Moreover, exercise releases endorphins. These chemicals trigger a positive feeling, which will help you manage any stressful situation.

Pay more attention to body signals. It doesn't matter if you're a married professional or happily single, as the body would undergo changes when it reaches middle age. Never ignore it, as it can harm you otherwise.

Don't go beyond your limits. If you're tired, then take a rest. (If it's an urgent matter, then make sure that you'll make it up sooner or later. This may be the perfect time to loaf the following day.) Don't hesitate to take a nap if you feel like lying down.

Assess (or reassess) your priorities. Mid-life crisis can be traced to unrealistic expectations. If you haven't met your career goals, then talk about it with your family or a friend (whose opinion you value most). Perhaps the conversation will help you realize something that you've been unaware all along. It will be the right time for a change of mindset. If you believe that there's a need for an overhaul, then think it carefully. You must be able to foresee the consequences, where disagreement would arise in the immediate future. It should be the case if you have a family. If you're unattached, then imagine if starting all over again should be worth it. Some may find it too late, and they may turn out to be right after all.

Keep yourself busy. Maybe you can't handle idle time. Indulge in your hobby, if not watch a TV show (or movie). Reading a book will help you, as good communication should keep you on top of your game.