Kadine Cooper, CPCC, also known as Coach K, is a certified coach, facilitator and speaker, specializing in empowering professionals and organizations to reach their full potential. With a focus on personal and professional development, Ms. Cooper leverages her expertise to drive positive change and growth.
In the fast-paced world of work, the initial excitement of embarking on a career can quickly fade as we reach our 30s. Early on, many of us start with a bang, eager to prove ourselves and climb the corporate ladder. But somewhere along the way, the momentum slows and work becomes the same old grind.
Promotions become less frequent, challenges become routine and the spark that once fuelled our ambition begins to flicker. This feeling of stagnation is something that many professionals experience as they move into the middle stages of their careers.
According to recent Gallup research, U.S. employee engagement has reached its lowest point in a decade, with a significant decline in motivation and satisfaction in the workplace. This issue isn’t unique to a particular demographic – it affects employees at various career stages. For those in their 30s, when career advancement slows and daily tasks start to feel repetitive, the risk of burnout becomes particularly prominent.
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A recent study highlighted in the New York Post called this shift “The Great Detachment.” While it focuses on Gen Z workers, the feelings of disillusionment and burnout resonate across generations, especially for those in the mid-career phase. Some professionals in their 30s are faced with the realization that success doesn’t always look like it did in the early years – promotions aren’t regular or a given and job roles may feel stagnant.
I can personally relate to this feeling of career stagnation. Over the course of my professional journey, I’ve reinvented myself multiple times – from a fashion merchandiser to a makeup artist, talent manager and now executive leadership coach. During these transitions, there were moments when I felt like my career had stalled. The enthusiasm I once had for my work began to decline, and I found myself questioning my path.
What helped me overcome these periods of stagnation was a combination of self-reflection and exploring new possibilities. Networking with people who were thriving in other fields and attending workshops helped me reimagine my career. I didn’t rush into a new role or industry; instead, I gave myself the space to explore, learn and regain clarity about what truly motivated me.
One of my clients, whom I’ll refer to as Nancy, experienced similar challenges. Nancy was highly qualified, with multiple certifications and a passion for learning. Yet, despite her achievements, she felt unappreciated at her company, and growth opportunities seemed scarce. She was at a crossroads – unsure whether to push through the stagnation or make a change.
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Through coaching and mindset work, we explored what she truly wanted out of her career. After some deep reflection and visualization, we designed a clear picture of her ideal role. Nancy became clear on the direction she wanted to go and took the necessary steps to align her career with her goals. Since then, she not only secured a position at a new company, but also earned two promotions within a year and is now earning 20 per cent more than her previous salary.
If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, it’s crucial to take pro-active steps to reignite your motivation. Here are some actionable tips based on my experience and the advice I offer clients facing burnout and stagnation:
- Prioritize self-care: Health truly is wealth. If you’re burning out, it’s important to take a step back and evaluate what’s serving you and what’s draining you. Prioritize your physical and mental well-being. Sometimes, burnout is a result of neglecting your personal health in favour of work.
- Reflect on your career path: Take the time to evaluate your current role. What do you enjoy? What would you delegate or never do again? Reflection can help you determine where to focus your energy and identify areas that require change or improvement.
- Seek mentorship: Often, we become disillusioned when we feel isolated. Find someone who has navigated similar challenges and can offer guidance. A mentor can help you see your career from a fresh perspective and provide valuable advice.
- Build skills and explore new opportunities: Sometimes, a lack of growth can feel like a career stall. Identify what skills are needed to advance in your field or pivot to a new one. Upskilling can open doors to new roles and responsibilities that re-energize your passion for work.
- Advocate for yourself: Don’t be afraid to speak up for what you need to feel motivated and engaged. Whether it’s more flexibility, leadership opportunities, or support from your organization, advocating for yourself is crucial. Additionally, work on cultivating a work environment that aligns with your personal values.
Organizational culture plays a significant role in mid-career burnout. A company’s ability to support and motivate its employees can directly affect job satisfaction. For many, burnout is the result of not only personal factors but also systemic issues within the organization, whether it’s limited development opportunities, lack of recognition or inflexible work policies. It’s essential to have open conversations with leadership about your needs, and sometimes, systemic changes, such as improved work-life balance and professional development opportunities.
The mid-career “stall” doesn’t have to be the end of your professional journey. With a pro-active approach, including reflection, upskilling and seeking mentorship, you can overcome burnout and reignite your motivation. By advocating for your needs and embracing the necessary changes in both you and your organization, you can continue to grow and thrive in your career.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Many professionals in their 30s are experiencing similar challenges. The key is to take the time to reflect, assess and take action. Your next step to success could be just around the corner.