When you work in the same environment for years (decades even!), it's so easy to settle back and wait out for retirement.

Yet if there is a niggle of doubt, take note - it's time to overcome that gnawing sensation of looking at your job and seeing where the fault lines are - and doing something about it!

You know that the only thing to do is get ahead, but it seems like you've gotten as far as you'll ever get. You've given the job everything and you are good at your work, but nothing about your job satisfies you.

So why aren't you chasing down your dream job? Why are you still working in a job you loathe?

Life isn't about a routine of day in, day out in some career you didn't really want. Feeling stuck is an awful one to deal with when you realize you've still got plenty of years ahead of you.

Life is about living and feeling alive, so it's time to make some changes and realize your full potential! No one is forcing you to stay in a job you hate and no one is holding you back from your dreams - except yourself, that is.

Start by figuring out what it is you really enjoy in life. Do you have a hobby or a passion? Most likely, you're pretty good at whatever it is you love doing. Have you ever thought of turning that hobby into a dream job that you'll look forward to every day?

You could turn your hobby into a paying career with a little determination and some good focus.

That's right; focus. Decide what it is you'd rather be doing, and then find out all you can about how you need to get there. Do your homework on whether you need credentials or qualifications to turn your hobby into employment.

Find out the steps you need to make that will bring you to where you want to be and lay down a plan.

Keep in mind that you're not going to get anywhere over night. Miracles don't happen but hard work, effort, and the right choices to move you forward will have solid results.

If you need training, part time courses or night school can let you keep your day job and work towards a new career in your spare time.

Volunteer. Network. Apprentice under someone who excels at what you want to do. Offering free services in exchange for the learning experience can be a great way to break into a new industry or career.

Talk to everyone you know about your plans; the more contacts and support you have, the more it will help you stay focused on your goals and provide opportunities.

Don't give up. Making life changes takes time and isn't always easy. You may face some stumbling blocks along the way to a dream job. If you remember your goals and you've taken the time to lay down your steps and plans, you'll be better prepared to find a way around the obstacle.

Obstacles are valuable opportunities for lessons in achieving what you want. Be prepared to face them and accept the challenge of resolving them. You'll also gain plenty of wisdom and experience while you work towards securing your dream job and a life of happiness and satisfaction.

If you believe you can, you will. If you believe you can't - well, sadly, that will prove to be true as well. How you set about getting the acreer you want is up to you, like it mor not.

Your own fate is in your own hands. Know you can and you will!