HEY LADIES! This one is for my younger self who had to learn these lessons the hard way- some pieces of advice I’d wish I had learned in my 20’s. The early stages of your career are a period of immense growth, but they are also a time when you can unknowingly fall into traps that can derail your progress. Looking back, there are certain things that could genuinely kill your career if you don’t watch out for them!
You could be making these 5 career mistakes that could damage your career long term! Today I want to share how to fix it!
Career-Killing Mistakes to Avoid!
1. Chasing the Title, Not the Skills
It’s easy to get swept up in the idea of a fancy job title. A “Director” title on your business card might feel like a win, but what does it really mean if you haven’t built the skills to back it up? True professional value doesn’t come from a nameplate; it comes from the tangible skills you possess and the real-world problems you can solve. A title is just a label, but your skillset is your greatest asset. ‘Be a leader, not a boss’.
- How to Fix It: Focus on projects that challenge you and provide new skills. Look for mentors who can teach you. The growth will follow, and the right titles will come when you’re truly ready. Look to also impact those around you in a positive way. You can not be a leader with 0 followers.
2. The Trap of People-Pleasing
Ahh..this one I think we all know too well. While we often think of people-pleasing in the workplace, it’s just as common—and often more damaging—with our family or closest friends. We spend so much energy saying “yes” to family members’ requests and living their expectations that we have no time left to pursue our own goals. You can’t spend your life living someone else’s dream without losing sight of your own. This path leads to burnout, resentment, and the feeling that you’re stuck in a life that isn’t truly yours.
- How to Fix It: Practice setting boundaries. Learn to say “no” or “let me get back to you.” Communicate your own priorities and value your time just as much as you value others. You DO matter.
3. Viewing Feedback as a Personal Failure
Feedback is a gift. It’s easy to get defensive and take criticism personally, but if you reframe it as a tool for growth, it becomes invaluable. Every piece of feedback—both positive and constructive—is a data point that tells you what you need to do to get to the next level. The most successful people actively seek out feedback because they understand that it’s the fastest path to improvement.
- How to Fix It: When you receive feedback, thank the person for it. Take a moment to process it without reacting. Ask clarifying questions like, “Can you give me an example?” to truly understand the context. Be appreciative.
4. You Are the Culture
“I wish we had a better company culture.” This is so common, but what if you’re part of the solution? Don’t wait for others to create the environment you want to work in. You are the culture. The way you interact with your team, the energy you bring to meetings, and the support you offer to others all contribute to the overall vibe of your workplace.
- How to Fix It: Start by becoming the culture you want to see. Celebrate small wins, show gratitude, listen to others, and bring a positive, solution-oriented attitude to the table.
5. Getting Too Comfortable
There’s a fine line between a good job and a stagnant job. When you become too comfortable, you stop growing. You know the routine, you can do the work with your eyes closed, and the challenges that once excited you are long gone. This comfort can be a silent killer, slowly eroding your skills and motivation. The world is constantly changing, and if you’re not evolving with it, you’re falling behind.
- How to Fix It: Don’t wait for your job to challenge you. Find your own challenges. Volunteer for a project outside your department, learn a new skill, or take on a mentorship role. Actively seek out opportunities that push you beyond your current capabilities.
Final Thoughts
Navigating your career in your 20s and 30s can be challenging, but a shift in your mindset can make all the difference. Stop chasing what looks good on paper and start building what makes you truly valuable. What’s the one thing you wish someone had told you sooner? Let’s talk about it in the comments below. More career advice here and here!
