It’s not easy finding career success. Additionally, there’s a lot of competition. This means you have to be at your best almost always to get ahead.

However, sometimes we simply can’t be at our best. On the other hand, while we might wish to fully focus on our careers, the reality is that sometimes life throws us a curveball. When those moments arrive, we simply cannot focus on the professional side of our lives. Consequently, we cannot focus as much as we’d like to.

There are ways, however, to prevent these issues from having an overly negative impact. Building a self-development framework for value-based growth can help you respond to setbacks in a way that fits who you actually are. Below, we will run through some of the most common problems people face. In addition, we will offer advice on what to do should they happen to you.

Burnout? How To Recover From Professional Burnout?

Sometimes, striving to get ahead can actually result in us falling behind. Burnout is a common condition. As a result, professionals feel tired, unmotivated, and unable to work anymore.

According to Gallup, 76% of employees say they experience burnout at work at least sometimes, and 28% report feeling burned out very often or always.

Consequently, it can be a wake-up call that something has to change. According to a CDC Vital Signs report, 36.9% of workers outside healthcare and other essential roles reported experiencing burnout “often or very often” in 2022. If you begin to show signs of burnout, then it is recommended. Therefore, take action as soon as possible. Investing in your rest and your overall well-being will provide the buffer you need to continue working without damaging yourself. Remember: career success is a marathon, not a sprint! Pacing yourself like this is a core part of how to build career resilience over the long run.

Workplace Injuries? What To Do After A Work Injury?

Any type of injury can put a pause on career progress, especially if you have to take time off work. Even if you don’t, then simply having to rest and recuperate means that you probably won’t have the energy you need to get ahead. Injuries that happen in the workplace are even more damaging since workers are often reluctant to fight for their rights when their employer is involved.

However, it’s best to fight your corner. There may be a host of workers compensation benefits that you’re eligible for, which will make recovery from your injury much easier to manage. It’s also important to remember that your employer can’t retaliate against you for making a claim, so it will not impact your career. Knowing your rights here is really just another way of practicing how to avoid common career mistakes born out of fear or misinformation.

Heartbreak.

It’s difficult to go through heartbreak at any period, but it’s even less welcome when you’re trying to succeed at work. Similarly, at that point, work may be the last thing on your mind. It’s recommended to take a day or two off work in the immediate period after the breakup; this will give you time to get yourself together without having to worry about work. Confiding in someone at work — maybe your superior, if appropriate — can also be recommended, since it’ll help to manage expectations during this period.

Moreover, beyond that, it’s all about doing the things that everyone must do to get over a heartbreak. Leaning on personal growth strategies rooted in values can help you stay grounded at work while you work through it. And remember, your job can work in your favor when going through heartache since it can provide a useful distraction!

Self-doubt? How To Overcome Chronic Career Self-Doubt?

Finally, there’s the matter of self-doubt. It becomes much more difficult to get ahead when you’re continually second-guessing whether you have what it takes to succeed.

According to a KPMG survey of 750 female executives, 75% reported experiencing imposter syndrome at some point in their careers.

If you find that inner voice being a little bit negative, then remind yourself of all your qualities and remember that how to overcome imposter syndrome professionally usually starts with exactly this kind of honest self-assessment — you’ll have a lot, so focus on them.