Let’s be real, climbing the career ladder as a woman sometimes feels like playing a game where the rules keep changing. One day you’re told to “lean in,” and the next, you’re advised to “take it easy.” Meanwhile, your dream job seems to be playing hide and seek. But what if the biggest obstacles aren’t external? What if YOU are unknowingly holding yourself back?
Before you throw your coffee at the screen, take a deep breath. You’re not alone. We’ve all been there. Let’s break down the six sneaky things keeping you stuck and, more importantly, how to crush them like a boss.
1. The “I’m Not Good Enough” Syndrome (Also Known as Impostor Syndrome)
Ever sat in a meeting waiting for someone to tap you on the shoulder and say, “Excuse me, you’re not actually qualified to be here?” Welcome to the club.
How to Overcome It:
- Keep a “Wins List” of every achievement, big or small.
- Remind yourself that nobody actually knows what they’re doing 100% of the time (yes, even your boss!).
- Fake it till you make it, but remember, you’ve already made it more than you think.
2. Waiting for Permission (Spoiler: No One’s Going to Hand You a Golden Ticket)
Newsflash: No fairy godmother is coming to grant you your dream job. If you’re waiting for someone to notice your hard work and promote you out of sheer appreciation, well, I hope you packed a snack, because that’s gonna be a long wait.
How to Overcome It:
- ASK for what you want, whether it’s a raise, a promotion, or a seat at the table.
- Stop apologizing for taking up space. You deserve to be here.
- Own your ambitions. If you don’t take yourself seriously, why should anyone else?
3. Fear of Rejection (A.K.A. Why You Haven’t Applied for That Job Yet)
Ever see a job posting and think, “Wow, this is perfect for me! But I don’t meet 100% of the qualifications…” So you don’t apply. Meanwhile, some guy with 60% of the qualifications is already drafting his acceptance email.
How to Overcome It:
- Apply anyway. Seriously.
- If you meet at least 60% of the criteria, go for it. Skills can be learned, confidence can’t be outsourced.
- Remember: The worst they can say is no. And then? You move on to the next one.
4. Trying to Do It All (And Burning Out in the Process)
You are NOT a one-woman circus. Trying to juggle work, life, home, relationships, and self-care without dropping a single ball is impossible (and exhausting).
How to Overcome It:
- Set boundaries like your life depends on it (because it kind of does).
- Delegate, at work, at home, everywhere.
- Say NO to things that don’t serve you. No, you don’t have to bake cupcakes for the office party unless that’s your passion.
5. Letting Perfectionism Paralyze You
You’ve drafted that email ten times. Your resume is on version 27. Your LinkedIn profile has been “almost ready” for months. Sound familiar?
How to Overcome It:
- Done is better than perfect.
- Set deadlines for yourself and stick to them.
- Embrace the 80/20 rule, get the most important things right, and let the rest go.
6. Not Having a Strategy (A Dream Without a Plan is Just a Wish)
You wouldn’t build a house without blueprints, so why are you winging your career?
How to Overcome It:
- Set clear career goals (short-term and long-term).
- Network like your next job depends on it, because it probably does.
- Invest in yourself. Take courses, find mentors, and never stop learning.
The Bottom Line? You’re Closer Than You Think!
Your dream job isn’t as far away as it seems, it’s just on the other side of these mental roadblocks. So, which one are you breaking through first?
Drop a comment below and tell me: What’s the #1 thing holding you back from your dream career? Let’s tackle it together!