Taming Your Mind: 6 Negative Thought Patterns You Need to Put a Stop to Right Now If You Want to Move Forward in Your Career

Do you ever get the nagging feeling that you’ve plateaued? That the best is already behind you? Even if you never say it out loud, these thoughts are incredibly limiting. What we think dictates how we feel, and how we feel influences how we behave. Stop behaving as though it’s all but over for you, and shift your mindset to a state that will actually benefit you. To get started, here are six fatal thoughts holding you back at work.

1. “I like things the way they are.”

It’s good to be comfortable, right? It can feel nice sometimes. But are you expecting things to get better while keeping your methods and routines precisely the same? This isn’t how to reignite your passion and get noticed. First, you have to make room for new ideas and ways of doing things.

2. “None of this is my fault.”

As we learn on ChadFocus.com, mindset is everything. And a crucial part of that mindset involves taking responsibility for any failures or shortcomings. After all, you want to demonstrate that you’re capable of learning and moving on from mistakes.

3. “If I just stick to pleasing my boss, I’ll be fine.”

Sadly, this is rarely true. What was praiseworthy last week might not be next week. It’s vital to remember that the boss cares about the business above all. Besides, there are tons of networking opportunities a rung or three below the head honcho. Do your best for everyone, not just one superior.

4. “None of my colleagues like me.”

Social challenges, surprisingly, are responsible for a lot of career hangups. If you want to get noticed and go farther, people need to recognize you. There’s no telling what you’re missing when you skip social events. There may be a lot of shop talk that could clue you in on how to get ahead.

5. “I’m not qualified for this.”

This is a close relative of, “That’s not my job.” Guess what? You are qualified, and it is your job – if you let those things be true. Display your initiative and show that you’re capable of more. Your willingness to grow and improve won’t be lost on those who are paying attention. In fact, reaching beyond your station is a great way to make people take notice.

6. “It’s taking too long. It’ll never happen for me.”

Moving forward rarely happens overnight. Listen to five speeches given by today’s great thinkers and achievers, and you’re sure to hear some of them mention how they refused to give up. You shouldn’t, either. If you get discouraged too easily, make it your mission to recognize that and turn it on its head each and every time it crosses your mind.

Is that all it really takes? Patience and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone? Maybe, along with some skill and self-awareness. The bottom line is that it all begins with what you’re thinking from moment to moment. With practice, you can transform limiting thoughts to ones that serve you well in every area of life – especially your career.