The Mid-Career Plateau: How to Break Through to the Next Level

Are you like me? I’ve hit career plateaus more than once. Each time, it felt frustrating—like I was doing good work but somehow standing still.

I’d mastered my role, but instead of feeling accomplished, I felt stuck. Boredom set in. My motivation dropped.

The first time it happened, I ignored it for too long, thinking it was just a phase.

But the feeling lingered, and I realized I had two choices: stay in my comfort zone or push forward into something new.

I chose to push. I pivoted roles, took on new responsibilities, and eventually moved into leadership.

Each time I hit another plateau, I had to find new ways to challenge myself and advocate for my own growth.

Why Women Get Stuck in Mid-Management

I’ve found that many women find themselves stuck in mid-management, and I’ve seen it happen to so many talented professionals. Here’s why I think it happens:

• Unclear Pathways: Leadership roles often seem vague, and many workplaces don’t have clear development plans.

• Waiting to Be Noticed: Women, especially, are taught to work hard and expect recognition. But promotions don’t always go to the hardest worker—they go to the person who asks for them.

• Lack of Advocacy: Many women don’t have sponsors or mentors pushing for their success.

• Work-Life Balance Fears: There’s a fear that climbing the ladder means sacrificing personal life.

How to Move

If you’re feeling stuck, here’s what helped me and many women I’ve worked with:

• Advocate for Yourself (Don’t Wait to Be Noticed): I used to believe that if I just did great work, leadership would naturally see my value. That’s not how it works. You have to make your aspirations known. Have intentional conversations with your manager about your goals. Share your achievements. Ask, “What would it take for me to move into a leadership role?”

  
  

• Get Comfortable with Discomfort: Every time I moved forward in my career, it was uncomfortable. I had to take on projects I wasn’t fully prepared for, speak up in ways that felt unnatural, and push past my own doubts. Growth doesn’t happen in comfort. If you’re feeling stagnant, it might be time to take a risk.

  
  

• Find a Mentor (and a Sponsor): A mentor gives you guidance. A sponsor puts your name in the room when you’re not there. Both are essential. The first time I had a sponsor, I didn’t even realize it—until I got an opportunity I hadn’t even applied for. Seek out people who will champion you and actively advocate for your advancement.

  
  

• Network with Purpose: Networking used to feel transactional to me, but then I reframed it: building genuine relationships with people who inspire me. Some of my biggest opportunities have come from casual conversations with colleagues, industry peers, and even past clients. Don’t underestimate the power of being visible in your field.

  
  

• Learn New Skills: One of the best ways I’ve broken through career plateaus is by learning something new. Whether it was a new certification, taking a course, or executive coaching, each new skill gave me confidence and opened doors. Look at what leadership roles require and start building those skills now.

  
  

If you’re feeling stuck, I get it. I’ve been there multiple times.

But each plateau is an opportunity to reassess, challenge yourself, and move forward.

Don’t wait for someone to notice your potential—advocate for it.

Find the people who will support you, and don’t be afraid to take a leap.

The next level is there for the taking.

I invite you to take my Leadership Assessment at www.thesinhagroup.net to understand your skill sets and develop new intentions.