What if…
This is as good as it gets?
Serious point. Many people in middle years and middle levels, hit the buffers.
They have been successful in a way, but not the way or to the extent that they intended.
Underneath, there is still ambition. The belief that they cold do more, should do more…
But they are stuck, doing what they’ve always done, and now, getting what they’ve always got.
Breaking out of this is tough, but it has to be done, and can be done.
Everyone I’ve spoken to in this situation has been in a slightly different place, with a different mix of factors that are holding them still. Which makes it difficult to be accurate with suggestions, but I want to give you something to think about to help you get moving.
- As Marshall Goldsmith’s book reminds us, “What got you here, won’t get you there!” Everyone plateaus in their career, most will do this several times. And when this hits, you have to change the way you are moving, what you are doing, and quite likely what you are thinking too. Go buy the book!
- At some point, you have to throw your notebook down in disgust and make a clear decision that you are not going to tolerate this. It has to be emotional (not necessarily disgust – how about fervour?) AND it has to be strong. The inertia that is holding you still has fixed you to the ground so the emotional energy that is needed to break you free will be great.
- Get over yourself. By that I mean, ask for some help. I remember my German tutor’s surprise that I wanted to learn a new language, wasn’t I too old?! Pfft! Anyhow, the serious point is that with age, experience and success it generally becomes more difficult to make a fool of yourself, demonstrate lack of skill and open yourself up to new learning. But, that is exactly what you need to do. So, get on with it.
- Take a hard look at your assumptions and the things you have implicitly agreed. These can settle dangerously as the years slip by, and if you’re stuck, this is probably why. Some of these assumptions are likely keeping you in place. “I’m too old.” “Overqualified.” “Too set in my ways.” (oh please!). Actually, these may have transformed into sub-conscious excuses to avoid the risk of you making a fool of yourself.
- Consult with people around you. Believe me, you are not alone, everyone experiences these moments. So just chill out and start asking around for some help and ideas.
Of course, this may well be as good as it gets, but it doesn’t have to be unless you decide to live that reality.
Colin Gautrey
Provocative Coach/Mentor | Specialism: Impact and Influence
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