You are clearly putting in effort, but that effort is spread across too many directions without a unifying strategy. Resumes, applications, networking, and certifications are all being used, but without alignment around a single target role and message. High effort without focus creates exhaustion without results. When actions are not coordinated, traction feels random and confidence slowly erodes, even though the underlying ability is there. This can feel exhausting because you are doing a lot, but nothing seems to move the needle consistently.

What you are experiencing is common for experienced professionals and it is fixable. The issue is not working harder or adding more credentials. The real leverage comes from clarifying your target role, tightening how your experience is positioned, and aligning your actions around a clear strategy. When your actions are aligned around a clear target and message, effort starts compounding instead of draining you.