56, coding since 79, first paid gig 83. I've had these dips periodically in my career. First in 1990! When I get bored or frustrated I tend to find it's down to mgmt. IMHO single biggest factor in job satisfaction is relationship with mgr. At various times I have fixed with internal moves, or new employer. Life is too short to suffer like this when you sell half your waking hours to earn a crust.