I have a very simple technique I use with people who seem to be stuck.

• Maybe they’re holding on to something they need to let go of
• Perhaps they can’t imagine what their future might look like
• Sometimes they have a self-limiting belief that seems to be derailing them

3 simple questions:

1. For the more modest among us (and that’s nearly everyone I’ve ever worked with) I know it’s not always easy applying the level of honesty that’s required to answer how well you’re doing – but try not to hold back . . .

• answer as objectively as you can
• rely on feedback you’ve received from others
• review your year’s performance
• check which of your goals/objectives you’ve achieved

2. Then work out what you’d like to achieve. This might include:

• a promotion
• a move out of your current organisation
• achievement of a qualification
• lateral development in your existing role (it’s not always about progressing upwards)
• are your current goals and objectives challenging and stretching you enough?
• have you remained in your comfort zone too long?
• what have you got that sets you apart from your peers?

3. And now the moment for unbridled truth-telling:

• what’s stopping you?
• who’s stopping you?
• who can help?

• what are you going to do next?