Unmasking Career Barriers: Real vs Perceived
What’s holding you back from advancing your career? Too many professionals identify these barriers as being out of their control, when in fact they are subconsciously holding themselves back. It’s important that we discern between real and perceived barriers.
Real barriers manifest as tangible challenges such as skill gaps or resource constraints, while perceived barriers are often rooted in internalized beliefs that may not align with reality.
Recently I was coaching a vice president at a mid-sized company known for his analytical prowess and strategic acumen. Despite consistently achieving stellar results and being highly regarded by colleagues, his ambition to reach the C-suite clashed with concerns over work-life balance. Years of neglecting personal well-being had led to burnout, yet he falsely believed sacrificing personal ambitions was necessary for career advancement (a perceived barrier).
In our sessions, I challenged this belief, prompting reflection on the origins of his career goals and questioning the feasibility of achieving executive roles without balance. Ultimately, he realized that his perceived struggle with work-life balance was the true barrier to his career progression, overshadowing his proven leadership and business contributions.
Do you have situations in your own life that mirror my client? If so, it’s imperative that you better understand how you perceive barriers, while ensuring you are on the right path to achieve your higher-level goals.
Defining your goals early in your career journey is paramount. Take a moment to reflect: What obstacles do you perceive? Are they concrete challenges or self-imposed limitations? Understanding the nature of these barriers is the first step towards overcoming them.
When faced with real barriers, adopting a proactive mindset is key. Seek coaching, acquire new skills, expand your network, and embrace growth opportunities. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity for growth!
Mindset plays a pivotal role in navigating perceived barriers. By challenging limiting beliefs and reframing negative thought patterns, you can break free from self-imposed limitations and unlock your full potential. Cultivate positivity and self-belief.
Now, it’s time for action. Set meaningful goals, devise actionable plans, and seek support from mentors or coaches. Progress demands courage, persistence, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone.
Your career journey is uniquely yours. Own it!
