Quick Tip: Common Mid-Career Mistakes That Limit Advancement And Growth

Mid-career can feel like a crossroads; professionals have developed a solid track record, yet face new expectations that demand a different kind of growth. The transition from individual contributor to leader often exposes missing pieces that weren’t as obvious earlier in a career. These gaps can quietly restrict momentum, even for high performers who believe they’re doing everything right.

As responsibilities expand, so does the need for sharper self-awareness and more intentional development. Below is a common hidden barrier that can hold mid-career professionals back and a quick tip on how to move past it.

Misaligning Intent and Impact

One blind spot for mid-career professionals is the need for alignment of their intent with its impact. For a leader at any level to be effective, they must be intentional with the words they choose and the energy with which their message is delivered. When intent and impact are aligned, the audience is likely to receive the message as intended. Great leaders can even read the room and pivot to realign the two if their message isn’t being received as desired.

- Lisa Walsh, Beacon Executive Coaching

Originally published on Forbes Coaches Council.