STOP Doing These 5 Things If You Want to Level Up

It’s not just about what you start doing—it’s about what you stop doing.

I used to believe that success meant always saying yes. Opportunities, projects, requests—if I didn’t take them, wouldn’t someone else? Wouldn’t I be seen as difficult? Less committed? Less… capable?

But here’s what I learned the hard way: Growth isn’t just about what you start doing—it’s also about what you stop doing. If you want to elevate your career and leadership, these habits need to go:

1?? Saying YES to everything.

I see this all the time—especially with high-achieving professionals who want to be seen as team players. But here’s the thing: People pleasers don’t go very far. The leaders you admire? They protect their time, energy, and focus fiercely.

Before saying yes, ask yourself: Does this align with my goals, or am I agreeing out of obligation? The difference between being busy and being impactful is knowing when to say no.

2?? Waiting for permission.

No one is coming to tap you on the shoulder and say, It’s your turn now.

If you’re waiting for someone to notice your work, advocate for you, or give you the green light to go after what you want—you’re giving away your power. The most successful professionals don’t wait to be chosen. They step forward with confidence and create their own opportunities.

If you’ve been hesitating, take the next step today. What’s one move you’ve been delaying that you can take action on right now?

3?? Over-explaining yourself.

I used to do this all the time—especially in meetings. I’d start explaining a decision, and before I knew it, I was justifying my existence. The most effective leaders don’t do that. They say what they mean and stop talking.

Next time you feel the urge to over-explain, pause and ask yourself: Does this need further clarification, or am I trying to justify my value? Confidence doesn’t need an essay.

4?? Measuring your worth by external validation.

I worked with MG, a brilliant data insights manager, who used to struggle with articulating the value of her skills. She relied on external recognition—feedback from leadership, annual reviews, job titles—to feel validated.Through coaching, she gained clarity on her strengths and learned to own her impact. As she put it:

"Reflecting on my elevator pitch helped me articulate the value of my skills and experience. The confidence I gained is definitely not something that I would have arrived at quietly working at it by myself."

The irony? Once she stopped chasing external validation and owned her worth, executive recruiters started reaching out to her. When you stop waiting for permission, the right doors open.

5?? Ignoring your gut instinct.

How many times have you felt something was off—but ignored it because it wasn’t rational?Your intuition is a leadership tool, shaped by years of experience. The best leaders don’t just trust their instincts—they refine them. If something doesn’t sit right, pay attention. Your gut is often ahead of your logic.

What’s one habit you’re letting go of this year?

Let’s talk about how to make space for the habits that truly serve you.

?? If you’re navigating career transitions or leadership challenges, I work with high-achievers to build confidence, clarity, and sustainable success. Let’s talk about how you can thrive—without burning out.

#Leadership #GrowthMindset #SuccessOnYourTerms #Boundaries