First, let's me explain my situation. I am 25 years old. I have been a junior programmer for two years and this is my first job. I am an active person and I like the challenge and the satisfaction of solving problems. Although my responsibility is to develop software, I have done many things beyond my job description: increase team collaboration, improve the software process and propose many positive changes to my manager.
But since the economic recession, my department was downsized. Many people were painfully cut in downsizing. There is no bonus, raise or promotion. I am quite disappointed but I can understand the company's situation. But the lack of recognition and the fact that there is nothing left but support and maintenance tasks to do made me wonder what is to motivate me to continue doing my best when it doesn't really matter to anyone. At this point, I start to lose energy and motivation, and then I am less productive.
I have try new things like starting my own software project, study new programming language. But I found that my day job really slows me down.
Is there a way for me to fix this problem or is it time for me to move on during this economic recession?