SPIN ONE'S WHEELS

{v. phr.} 1. Said of cars stuck in snow or mud whose wheels are turning without the car moving forward. * /There was so much snow on the driveway that my car's wheels were spinning in it and we couldn't get going./ 2. To exert effort in a job without making any progress. * /I've been working for the firm for two decades, but I feel I am merely spinning my wheels./