11 CAREER-KILLING MOVES (Fix Them Before They Wreck You)
1. Solving Problems That Aren't Yours
Looks Like: Being a team player, always stepping in.
Actually is: A fast track to burnout and getting stuck doing work that isn't valued.
Do this instead: Let small fires burn. Focus on fixing the system, not just the symptoms.
2. Staying Because it's Comfortable
Looks Like: Loyalty and stability.
Actually is: Fear of change disguised as commitment.
Do this instead: Keep your resume updated. Take interviews before you're stuck.
3. Making Yourself Irreplaceable
Looks Like: Job security.
Actually is: Career stagnation. If they can't promote you without chaos, they won't.
Do this instead: Document your role. Train your replacement. Make space to level up.
4. Waiting for Permission to Lead
Looks Like: Being respectful, following the chain of command.
Actually is: Letting others decide your career trajectory.
Do this instead: Find a broken process. Fix it. Show impact before you ask for a title.
5. Ignoring Office Politics
Looks Like: Staying above the drama.
Actually is: Letting others control the decisions that affect your career.
Do this instead: Build three allies above your level. Stay aware, not oblivious.
6. Thinking HR Is There For You
Looks Like: A safety net.
Actually is: A company department that exists to protect the company first.
Do this instead: Keep receipts. Document everything. Know your rights.
7. Chasing Titles Over Skills
Looks Like: Ambition.
Actually is: A trap. Titles mean nothing if you don't have the skills to back them up.
Do this instead: Master rare, valuable skills. The right title will follow.
8. Not Negotiating Early Offers
Looks Like: Being easy to work with, getting your foot in the door.
Actually is: Leaving money (and respect) on the table.
Do this instead: Know market rates. Ask for more-early. It sets the tone for your value.
9. Not Building Your Network
Looks Like: Keeping your head down and working hard.
Actually is: Betting your future on luck instead of relationships.
Do this instead: Build one new connection weekly. The best opportunities come from people, not job boards.
10. Staying Too Long In One Role
Looks Like: Commitment.
Actually is: Career stagnation. Your learning curve flattens while the market moves on.
Do this instead: Change roles every 2-3 years. If you're not growing, you're falling behind.
11. Playing It Too Safe
Looks Like: Making responsible choices.
Actually is: Avoiding the moves that lead to real growth.
Do this instead: Take one strategic leap every quarter. The biggest risk is never taking any.
