Introduction: Overcoming Barriers to Career Growth

For many of us, the messages we’ve absorbed over the years—especially as Gen-X women—have kept us playing small in our careers. “Just work hard, and someone will notice.” “Don’t ask for help; figure it out yourself.” “Don’t make waves.” Sound familiar? While these ideas might have served us early in our careers, they’ve become barriers as we navigate midlife and look to achieve more.

If you’re over 50 and feeling stuck, it’s time to rewrite the narrative. The truth is, no one else will prioritize your career or advocate for your growth the way you can. That’s why now is the perfect time to step into the driver’s seat and take bold, strategic action toward your goals.

In this blog, I’ll share how to identify the stories holding you back, reclaim control of your career, and build the confidence to advocate for yourself.

What’s Holding You Back?

Let’s get real: often, the biggest barriers we face are the stories we tell ourselves. Here are a few common ones—and how to challenge them:

• “I’m too old.”
  Experience isn’t a limitation; it’s your superpower. Your years in the workforce have given you unmatched wisdom, resilience, and the ability to see the bigger picture.

• “I’m not ready yet.”
  Waiting for perfection is a trap. There’s no perfect time or perfect skill set. Start taking small steps toward your goal today.

• “I don’t want to brag.”
  Advocating for yourself isn’t bragging—it’s ensuring your hard work is visible. If you don’t speak up about your contributions, who will?

Take a moment to reflect: What’s the story you’ve been telling yourself about why you can’t achieve your next goal? Is it really true, or is it time to let it go?

Reclaiming the Driver’s Seat

When you let fear, doubt, or external expectations dictate your career, it’s like handing over the keys to someone else. But the good news? You can take back control. Here’s how:

1. Shift Your Mindset

Instead of focusing on why you can’t achieve something, shift to a mindset of possibility.

• Replace “It’s too late for me” with “I’m exactly where I need to be to make my next move.”
• Replace “I’m not good enough” with “I bring value that no one else can.”

2. Take Brave, Strategic Action

Bold moves lead to big results, but you don’t have to leap all at once. Start with small, intentional steps:

• Volunteer for a leadership opportunity.
• Speak up in meetings with insights or solutions.
• Schedule one career-focused conversation this week—whether it’s with your boss, a mentor, or a peer.

3. Control Your Calendar

Your time is your most valuable resource, and taking control of it is essential for career growth.

• Block time for goal-focused tasks, like networking, skill-building, or planning your next steps.
• Prioritize tasks that align with your long-term goals rather than getting stuck in the day-to-day grind.

Advocating for Yourself: From Clarity to Confidence

Once you’ve taken back control, the next step is making your value visible to others. This starts with identifying what makes you unique and confidently communicating it.

1. Know Your Unique Value

Take the time to reflect on your achievements and what sets you apart:

• What are your top skills? Include both soft skills (like communication) and technical expertise.
• What are your standout accomplishments? Think of measurable impacts like revenue generated, time saved, or projects led.
• What makes you unique? What do you do better than anyone else?

2. Create a Value Statement

A unique value statement helps you articulate what you bring to the table. Use this framework:
“I [describe what you do uniquely] by leveraging [specific skill/experience], which allows me to [outcome or impact].”
This statement can become your elevator pitch, making it easier to share your value in conversations, interviews, and meetings.

3. Speak Up

Start advocating for yourself in your everyday interactions:

• Share your wins with your boss or team during 1:1s or team meetings.
• Highlight your contributions during your year-end review.
• Use networking opportunities to connect with people who can help you grow.

Why This Matters: Confidence and Visibility Lead to Promotions

Knowing your unique value doesn’t just build your confidence—it elevates your brand. When you’re clear on what you bring to the table, others will be, too. Leaders, mentors, and sponsors will better understand your strengths and will be more likely to advocate for you when opportunities arise.

Clarity is critical for standing out as the obvious choice at promotion time. Decision-makers want candidates who can articulate their value, align it with organizational goals, and demonstrate leadership. By owning your value, you position yourself as that person.

Taking the First Step

Here’s my challenge to you:
Take 15 minutes today to write down three things that make you uniquely valuable in your role.

• What’s one skill you’re proud of?
• What’s one accomplishment that had a measurable impact?
• What’s one way you’ve helped your team or organization succeed?

Start using this list in your next career conversation, whether it’s with your boss, a mentor, or a potential sponsor. And if you’re feeling stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to help.

Let’s Keep the Momentum Going

• Ready to dive deeper?
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• Join the conversation!
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Your career is yours to design. It’s never too late to take control and go after the goals you deserve.