Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared on FlexJobs.com.
Are you spinning your professional wheels but can’t quite figure out how to move forward? You may have realized you’re unhappy with your current job, but you’re not quite sure how to fix the problem.
Perhaps you have big ambitions but no clear path to get there. Or, the right opportunity never seems to come your way.
The truth is, you’re probably closer than you think to career success. But you might be unintentionally getting in your own way and holding back your career.
Overcoming your internal doubts and creating a strategic plan could be the key to finally reaching the next level.
Obstacles Holding You Back From Career Success
It’s time to take a big-picture look at your career path and acknowledge what’s holding you back from success. Once you have a handle on the issue, you can take steps to move forward.
1. Failing to Challenge Your Own Limiting Beliefs
Do you see a job posting and start looking for reasons you won’t be chosen? If so, you’re counting yourself out before you even get in the game. Ask yourself if you’ve allowed any of the following thoughts to take root:
- I’m not qualified enough for this position.
- It’s too late for me to make a career change.
- My lack of experience prevents me from being promoted.
- There are too many other people competing for me to stand out.
- I started too late to command a good salary.
- I’m not innovative enough to be an industry leader.
Your brain is trying to protect you from disappointment and failure. Don’t let those fear-based presumptions take hold.
Learn to recognize your limiting beliefs and then reframe them into more productive thoughts. Next time you see an opportunity you’re interested in and decide not to pursue it, give yourself time for self-reflection.
Dig deep to analyze why you’re not applying. Then, consider how you can reframe your thoughts into something more positive.
Instead of thinking, “There are too many people competing for me to stand out,” try thinking, “There is likely to be a lot of interest in this role, so I need to dedicate time to researching and tailoring my resume to ensure I stand out.”
2. Lacking a Growth Mindset
New technologies, policies, and products will arise throughout every career.
If you’re continually frustrated and negative about updates and changes, it’s unlikely that you’ll be promoted to a leadership role. After all, the leader generally has to champion change regardless of how challenging the new environment is.
Developing a growth mindset can ensure that you’re embracing any changes.
3. Ignoring Uncertainty About Your Goals
You’d like to earn more money and have more responsibility. But have you detailed those career goals at all?
If not, you need to set yourself up for success when the next opportunity presents itself.
Create a plan that defines your long-term and short-term career development goals. With those in hand, you can take a snapshot of your missing skills and pursue opportunities to fill the gaps.
4. Fluctuating Boundaries That Lead to Burnout
Do you struggle to take breaks and vacations? Do you have trouble saying no to additional assignments even though you’re exhausted?
You may think you can accomplish more if you’re constantly working, but the truth is just the opposite. You’ll be more productive and offer a higher quality of work when you have less stress and better balance.
That’s why it’s essential to set boundaries with yourself and coworkers. Develop a clear plan regarding when you’ll be available and how long you’ll work each day.
Establishing these limits will protect your well-being and ensure you can offer your best efforts.
5. Following a Path of Convenience, Rather Than Intention
No one really loves a job search. But taking on the first role you’re offered can dramatically derail your career.
Instead, take the time to analyze if a position is really a great fit.
Will it meet your personal needs and your long-term career development goals? Does the company offer your desired culture? If not, it’s better to pass on the opportunity and find a better fit.
6. Living Someone Else’s Dream
Did you get advice from someone who seems to be thriving? It might be someone you know personally, your career adviser, or even a business leader you admire.
Regardless of who it was, if you take their words as direction, rather than inspiration, you’re unlikely to find success.
After all, their dreams and goals might be similar to yours, but they won’t ever mirror them or your personality exactly. You can apply others’ tips to your own dreams, but don’t let someone else decide your future.
7. Ignoring Your Need for Support
On the flip side is acknowledging that everyone needs support to thrive. Whether you don’t want to be a burden or you have an overabundance of confidence, you need to let go of your unwillingness to accept help.
In your career, this is often found in the form of mentors who can offer insights or your network, whose connections you can utilize.
The best relationships are those that can provide guidance but have no expectation that they should be allowed to dictate your career moves.
8. Focusing Only on Change
Can you list what you love about your job? There’s a pretty good chance you can highlight what you don’t love. That negative list might lead you to a new role, but if you’re only focusing on change, rather than growth, you might end up with something that’s even less of a fit.
Instead, make a list of everything you love about your current role.
Maybe it’s the way your team interacts or how your boss doesn’t micromanage. Maybe it’s the projects you work on or the company’s mission and values.
Once you have your list, seek other roles that offer the same but in greater quantity or responsibility. Acknowledge changes you’d enjoy, such as more flexibility or better pay, but with a focus on growth, rather than a complete overhaul.
Recognizing Habits That Are Holding You Back
No matter where you are in your career, it is essential to be mindful of the habits and obstacles that might be holding you back from reaching your career goals.
With thoughtful planning, self-reflection, and an open mind to change, you can ensure that you’re not limiting your career growth unintentionally.