When someone is running in circles, it implies that they're doing something repeatedly and getting nowhere. Some synonyms for this phrase include going around in circles, spinning their wheels, chasing their tail, not making progress, and hitting a dead end. Other related phrases that convey the same meaning include being stuck in a rut, going nowhere fast, getting no traction, and cycling through the same old routine. It's important to recognize when we're running in circles in our lives and seek ways to break free from it, whether it's by seeking new perspectives, changing our approach, or making a clean break from a situation that's no longer serving us.