Stop Playing Small - Playing it Safe is Keeping You Stuck!

Hey there - Power Players, Movers & Shakers!

First things first welcome to Power Moves! We’re already closing in on 1,000 subscribers in just a week, and to say I’m thankful just wouldn’t be enough. But seriously, Thank you!

This isn’t just another newsletter; this is your place to stop playing small, take charge, and start making serious career moves.

For those who don’t know me yet, I’m Kay Allen Brownlee, founder of CareerSnobs. I’ve recruited thousands of professionals over the last decade, and now I’m taking that experience to help individuals and organizations flip the script on how they approach career management. I’m all about proactive career ownership—because waiting around for someone else to make moves for you?

That’s a losing game.

Now, let’s dive into this week’s topic. Last week, I hosted the Stop Playing Small: Playing It Safe is Keeping You Stuck talk, and trust me, if you weren’t there, you missed a wake-up call.

Here’s what we covered:

1. The Real Problem with Playing Small

Playing small keeps you exactly where you are, STUCK. The truth is, if you’re staying in your comfort zone, you’re not growing. Success doesn’t come to those who wait for it; it comes to those who take bold action.

"Comfort is the enemy of growth. If you're not feeling a little nervous about your next move, you’re not thinking big enough."

2. The Bold Moves You Need to Make

If you’re waiting for someone to hand you success, you’re wasting time. It’s up to you to take control. We talked about three bold moves you need to make right now:

• Speak up for that raise, promotion, or new opportunity.
• Take risks—calculated, but necessary. Comfort zones won’t get you where you want to go.
• Invest in yourself—whether it’s learning, networking, or building your brand.

"No one’s going to hand you success. It’s up to you to claim it, own it, and go after it with everything you’ve got."

3. The Comfort Zone Trap

Playing it safe feels secure, but it’s the biggest reason you’re stuck. Growth happens when you’re willing to get uncomfortable and take risks.

"Playing small isn’t protecting you—it’s keeping you stuck."

If these points hit a nerve, I invite you to check out the full Stop Playing Small Talk here SPS - OYC Power Play Series for more insights on how to break free from the safe path and start making bold moves.

And we’re not stopping there. Next week, I’m hosting another can’t-miss session: Blend In or Stand Out: The Only Thing That Needs to Change is YOU Talk on October 1, 2024 @6p-7pm. This one’s all about getting noticed, stepping up, and making sure you’re standing out in your career.

Ready to make a move? Register Today: Blend In or Stand Out Talk Link

So, here’s the bottom line: Playing small and staying in your comfort zone is only holding you back. If you want to see real change in your career, it’s time to start making bold moves and take control. No more waiting for the right moment, no more hoping someone else will notice you.

The power is in your hands. Own it, claim it, and go after what you deserve.

Whether you’re unemployed, living on severance pay, new to your career, in between positions, ready for a promotion, or strategically working toward one, this is for you. It’s time to make power moves that push your career forward.

The time to make power moves is now. Let’s get to work!

Want to dive even deeper into taking control of your career? Visit the CareerSnobs OYC Coaching Experience or take the next step and explore the OYC: The Power Play Series Course Link. This is where we go all-in on career ownership, helping you stop playing small and start making bold, game-changing moves in your career.

Until next time, keep pushing forward and keep making those power moves.