Are you giving up too soon?

Growth is great.

Sometimes it takes more patience than rush to grow and realize your dreams for that role.

Two of my recent discussions centered around this topic.

A rising star in the data/analytics area:
– Six roles in under nine years
– Only two of them over 2 years.
– Six months into the role. Manages a team of over 20.

Asked me what he should do to grow in career.

I advised staying put for at least another 2 more years – Else “Peter principle” will hurt his career if he does not spend time learning things needed for the next levels.

A seasoned executive leader
– Just over a year in the current role with plenty of challenges
– Manages a huge team, unsure if what he is doing is working. Sees more challenges than opportunities

I advised him to give it more time to see the benefits of his actions. Some large worthwhile changes take time, and when dealing with a cultural change, visible benefits will take time to show. What is critical is to plan and take action in the desired direction consistently.

If your self-evaluation does not show a hopeful future, ask if you have given enough time. Sometimes, a little bit of patience may be the only thing required.