YOUNG DJ TOO COMFORTABLE QUESTION FOR DAN O’DAY: I am in a small market, working afternoons at a heritage station that has a fantastic reputation. I'm also a relatively young jock (22) who needs advice from someone with a considerably larger base of knowledge and experience. My problem is that I feel like I am still growing as a jock, but not particularly learning as much as I would like to be. It is as though I am becoming comfortable, complacent, and cynical. I feel like I am just going through the motions. I don't know if it is my attitude that is causing this shift or if it is just the way of things. What would you suggest I do to spark some inspiration, wonder, and excitement about my current position? Is this the time to move or should I keep sticking with it until I earn some more experience, knowledge, and patience? DAN REPLIES: My rule of thumb for young jocks (ever since I was a jock) is this: When you've reached the point where you no longer can learn from your present station & colleagues, it's time to move on & upward. To spark more enthusiasm at your current job, you need to challenge yourself. Do you listen to great airchecks from around the world? When is the last time you tried to create a brand-new character or feature? The worst thing a young jock can be is comfortable.