Then you're doing it wrong. If you're good at automation you can get promoted readily.
But hey if you hate Excel that much why not find another type of work. Be a carpenter. Be a tour guide. No one is forcing you to work an Excel-only office job.
With the jobmarket the way it is? If they don't promote you, move on. I'm not saying it's easy and of course there are people in tough spots for different reasons. But it's more in your hands than many people think.
Historically awful? Don't get me wrong, the advice is still solid, but this was a weird way to preface it - it's the hardest time in my 10-year career to "just find a new job".