Finding Your Path Forward When Nothing Seems to Work?

As a career coach, I've encountered countless professionals in their 40s who are at a crossroads in their careers. I was one of them.? They've achieved success in many areas of their lives and careers, yet something feels off. If this feels familiar, you are not alone. Mid-career stagnation is common, and this week, I worked with one of my clients on how to move forward when everything you try seems to push you back ten steps instead of forward.

The Mid-Career Dilemma

Picture this: You've worked hard for as long as you can remember, climbing the corporate ladder and accumulating experience and expertise. You are often the go-to person in a team for guidance and support, and when things go wrong, others come to you because of your ability to see the big picture. On paper, you're successful. But inside, there's a nagging feeling of dissatisfaction. You might be feeling a loss of passion or your mojo or thinking, "I've been doing this for so long, I don't even know what I want anymore."

This sense of feeling lost isn't a sign of failure or that you don't have what it takes to create what you want. It's a signal that it's time for a shift, whether that is a shift in perspective or how you have been doing things.?

Einstein says, "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result."

Often, when you hit a boulder in the road, it's time to rethink your strategy. This is often the hardest part because changing your strategy includes learning new things or new ways of doing things.?And many professionals don't want to.

The saying "What got you here isn't going to get you there" is true.         

At this stage of our careers, we may be asked to do things differently. Take job search strategies, for example. It's not enough to apply for a job these days. Now, you are being asked to reach out and connect with people in that company, field or industry and build relationships with them. This means you have to get better at social media and not seem like you are stalking them. Having and building a network is vital for career success. But if reaching out to someone via a DM isn't for you or doesn't feel aligned with your values, then you shouldn't do it. However, to get in front of new employers, you have to think of new ways that feel aligned with who you are.

The important thing is that when you realise that what used to work isn't working anymore, there is no point in trying to make that work. It's time to do something different.

Moving Forward

So, how do you navigate this maze and create momentum? Here are some strategies to consider:

Rediscover Your 'Why'

Take time to reflect on what truly matters to you now. Your values and priorities have likely shifted since you started your career or your current job - understanding your current 'why' can guide your next moves.

Embrace Continuous Learning

The job market is constantly evolving. Identify skills gaps in areas that interest you and invest in learning. This not only makes you more marketable but can also reignite your passion and create opportunities you may not have considered.?

Experiment??

You don't have to quit your job to explore new paths. Volunteer, take on side projects, or shadow professionals in fields that interest you. This low-risk exploration can provide valuable insights and ideas for what you may want to explore next.?

Reframe Your Experiences?

Instead of feeling 'stuck' in your current role, consider what is possible for you. Think about how your years of experience can be an asset in a new field. Your unique perspective could be incredibly valuable in a different industry or organisation.

Seek Support?

You don't have to go through this journey alone. In fact, we are not meant to. Connect with a mentor, join professional groups, or consider working with a career coach. Sometimes, an outside perspective can provide the clarity and direction you need to move forward.?

Embrace the Journey

You've come a long way in your career and deserve a pat on the back. If no one will give it to you, do it for yourself. Feeling stuck or lost in your job isn't a setback; it's an opportunity for growth and reinvention. It's a chance to realign your work with who you are now, not who you were when you started this journey.

Self-compassion is key as you navigate this phase, so be kind to yourself.

It's okay to feel uncertain or even scared. These emotions are natural parts of any significant change. Embrace these emotions as signs that you're moving in the right direction - towards a more fulfilling and authentic career path.

Ready to take the next step?

If you're feeling stuck and need personalised support to create momentum and find your way forward, I would love to help.

You can book a?Discovery Call with me to explore how we can work together to overcome your current career challenges and create a clear roadmap to align your career with your passions and values.

Book Your Discovery Call Now