"The man on top of the mountain didn’t fall there."
— Vince Lombardi
When was the last time you woke up excited to go to work? Not just "okay with it" or going through the motions, but genuinely excited to tackle the day ahead? Better yet, how often do you leave work feeling energized, fulfilled, and ready to pour that same enthusiasm into your personal life?
For too many professionals beginning in their mid-30s that spark in life feels like a distant memory. The demands of the workplace, the weight of responsibilities, and the grind of daily routines can leave you feeling stuck—trapped in a cycle that doesn’t light you up anymore. It’s easy to fall into the habit of surviving instead of thriving, hoping that the next promotion, project, or paycheck will magically reignite your drive.
But here’s the truth: nothing changes unless you decide to change it.
2025 is your year to rewrite that story. It’s time to stop settling for “good enough” and start designing a career that makes you want to jump out of bed every morning. Imagine walking into work with a sense of purpose, crushing your goals with clarity and confidence, and leaving the office with the energy to enjoy your evenings fully.
Do you ever feel like your live is living you rather than you living your life? Whether you’re gunning for a promotion, looking to expand your professional funnel, or simply trying to fall back in love with what you do, it all starts with a decision—your decision to take control of your career trajectory.
In this blog, we’ll chart a clear path to achieving that career transformation. You’ll learn how to recognize when you’re stuck, expand your opportunities, and rediscover the excitement of meaningful work. We’ll also explore how to balance your professional drive with personal energy so you can excel at work and still have plenty left to give to yourself and those you care about.
Let’s make 2025 the year where you stop going through the motions and start thriving. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in and craft the career and life you deserve.

Step 1: Recognizing When You’re Stuck
The Silent Signs of Stagnation
Have you ever found yourself stuck in a routine that feels more like a treadmill than a career? You’re moving, you’re working hard, but you’re not getting anywhere meaningful and you feel like you simply tend to work items and then tend to home items. Many professionals in their 30s, 40s, and 50s experience this, but the signs can be subtle. You might feel undervalued, dreading Monday mornings, or questioning if what you do matters. If this sounds familiar, consider this your wake-up call—it’s time to recognize the stagnation and do something about it.
Believe this you are not failing; you’re ready for a change. The hardest part for many is admitting it. You’ve built a career, achieved milestones, and checked off boxes that society deems successful, yet something’s missing. Deep down, you crave more—a sense of purpose, excitement, and fulfillment that’s been lost along the way.
The High Cost of Stagnation
Remaining in a state of professional stagnation doesn’t just impact your career—it takes a toll on every aspect of your life. Mentally, it leads to burnout, stress, and even depression. Physically, it drains your energy, leaving you too exhausted to enjoy time with your family, pursue hobbies, or focus on your health. Over time, this cycle becomes self-perpetuating: the more drained you feel, the harder it becomes to muster the energy to create change.
Have you ever tried to search for a job or new business idea when you are without the drive you once had? It’s tough and others hear the you that is present not the you that you know is inside.
What’s worse, staying stuck in your career has long-term consequences. Missed promotions, stagnant salaries, and unfulfilled potential can lead to regret, both professionally and personally. But the good news is that it doesn’t have to be this way.
Are You Stuck
The first step to breaking free is acknowledging where you are. This isn’t about blaming yourself or others; it’s about recognizing that where you are today isn’t aligned with where you want to be. Awareness is powerful. When you name the problem, you give yourself permission to fix it.
Now, you’re ready to chart a new course. Nothing else matters.
Opportunity: Reframe the Game
You are at the beginning of something better. Many professionals I’ve coached started in the exact same place you might find yourself today. They were frustrated, unmotivated, and unsure of how to make a change. But by reframing the game as a new opportunity, they discovered a path to a new, exciting journey.
Instead of asking, “Why?” ask, “What can I do to grow?” This shift in mindset is crucial. It turns identifies stepping stones that lead to new opportunities and challenges. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.
A Real-Life Transformation
Matt, a mid-level manager in his 40s reached out to me, feeing unmotivated almost trapped. He described his job as a “soul-sucking grind” and admitted that his evenings were spent numbing himself with TV and each family task was a chore. He quit working out no longer played pickup basketball, he lacked motivation. He woke each morning with dread. Matt wanted a promotion, but more than that, he wanted a reason to feel excited about work again.
Together, we worked to identify the root of his frustration and create a strategy for growth. Matt began networking with leaders in his field, engaging with Directors of other areas, and taking on projects that aligned with his values. We established Matt’s comfortable boundaries and he enforced those boundaries to protect his energy. Within six months, not only did Matt secure a promotion, but he also rediscovered his passion for leading his team.
Matt’s story isn’t unique—it’s what happens when you invest in yourself, seek guidance, and take action. Did you have a familiar experience when you landed your first career job out of college?
Your Wake-Up Call: Take Action Today
Now, it’s your turn. If you’re reading this and nodding along, there’s a reason—it’s because you know it’s time to make a change. But here’s the truth: change doesn’t happen by chance; it happens by choice.
The choice to invest in your growth. The choice to step out of your comfort zone. The choice to seek guidance from someone who’s been there and helped others break the stagnation.
As a career and life coach, my focus is on growth beyond manager to positions of Directors, VPs, SVPs, and higher. Those positions that require a different frame of mind, from doing to leading and guiding. I specialize in helping professionals like break free from stagnation, and rediscover their passion, so that together we can create a personalized roadmap to success.
If you’re ready to take that next step, I invite you to reach out. Don’t let another week, month, or year slip by while you feel stuck. Your breakthrough is waiting—let’s make it happen together.
What Happens When You Take the Leap?
Imagine this: waking up each morning with clarity and purpose. You’re not just going to work; you’re moving toward your goals. You’re recognized for your contributions, energized by your progress, and excited for what’s next.
And when the day ends? You leave the office with energy to spare—enough to invest in your family, hobbies, and the things that truly matter. This isn’t a dream; it’s what happens when you decide to take control of your career and life. Imagine, 5 am rolls around and instead of hitting the snooze you wake up and hit the gym, take a walk, read a chapter, meditate, or doing what you prefer to start your day.
Step 2: Build Momentum Toward Career Growth
1. Define What You Really Want
Are you sure – crystal clear about what they want. Sure, “getting promoted” sounds great, but what does that actually mean for you? A title bump? A pay raise? More responsibility? Or perhaps it’s something deeper—like having a greater impact or aligning your role with your passions. Many of my clients tell me, they want to move to the strategic level in their organization. I ask them what that means exactly and they cannot clearly articulate what that means. My follow-up question is, “How would you spend your day if at the strategic level?” Again, they are unable to answer.
Without clarity, it’s easy to chase opportunities that don’t serve you or miss out on the ones that do. The first step to getting promoted or expanding your professional funnel is to define what success looks like for you.
Start by asking yourself these questions:
What do I love most about my work?
What tasks or projects energize me, and which ones drain me?
How do I want my career to align with my personal life and values?
In a perfect world, how would I spend my day?
This isn’t just about promotions; it’s about designing a career that makes you excited to get up in the morning. Take time to reflect on your goals and envision your ideal future. This clarity will serve as your guiding light when opportunities arise.
Interestingly, when I moved through the promotion framework, I spent more time addressing issues. It appeared that I had an interest in working through difficulties. One example was a 5 year project relocating a division of about 225 people to a cheaper location. That project included finding those 225 people opportunities within the organization, or helping those individuals seek employment elsewhere. In another example, Houston, Texas experienced one of it floods and this particular flood resulted in flooding of the Medical Center. I was able to function in a role as hospital administrator, signing off of relocating people to different wards of the hospital.
Write a “future-self” letter dated one year from now. Describe the role, impact, and life you want to have. Be as specific as possible, and use this vision as a benchmark for your decisions moving forward.
2. Growth Mindset
The path to promotion isn’t linear, and it’s rarely smooth. Roadblocks and challenges will arise, but how you perceive and respond to them will determine your success. This is where a growth mindset becomes essential. View my recent blog dedicated to growth mindset to see if changes are needed by you.
A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort, learning, and perseverance. Instead of seeing setbacks as failures, those with a growth mindset view them as opportunities to grow.
Cultivate a Growth Mindset:
Seek Feedback: Feedback isn’t criticism—it’s a tool for improvement. Regularly ask your peers, supervisors, and even subordinates for constructive input. The trick is not only to listen but to process with an open mind what you hear.
Feedback is a gift. You chose to file away for future use, regift it, discard it, or use it right away.
Reframe Setbacks: When things don’t go as planned, ask yourself, “What can I learn from this?”
Celebrate Progress: Even small wins matter. Recognize and reward your efforts to stay motivated.
When you embrace a growth mindset, you’ll start seeing opportunities for advancement that others overlook. You’ll take calculated risks, stretch your abilities, and position yourself as a leader who can handle challenges with confidence.
Sarah, a prior client of mine, struggled with leadership when the CEO repeated passed her over for a promotion. Instead of giving up, she decided to focus on growth. She joined 2 women in leadership groups, took a leadership course, reached out to three women I made introductions to, and volunteered for challenging projects. Together we plotted her course, which did not include her current employer where she was VP of Operations. Within three months, she not only secured the promotion but it was from VP to COO at a different company.
3. Expand Your Professional Funnel
Promotions don’t just happen because you’re qualified—they happen because people know, trust, and advocate for you. That’s why building and expanding your professional network is a non-negotiable step in the promotion pathway.
Your “professional funnel” includes mentors, colleagues, industry connections, and decision-makers who can vouch for your value. A strong network doesn’t just open doors; it creates opportunities you may never have known existed. Sarah, the example about, learned of the opportunity and made the connection through one of the women in one of the women in leadership networking groups. She learned of the opportunity in the 2 networking meeting.
How to Expand Your Funnel:
Leverage LinkedIn: Don’t just connect—engage. Share insights, comment on posts, and build relationships with people in your industry.
Find a Mentor: A mentor can provide guidance, open doors, and champion your career growth. Look for someone whose career path inspires you. Mentors come from various industries, verticals, roles.
Give Before You Take: Networking isn’t just about asking for help; it’s about building reciprocal relationships. Offer support, share resources, and add value to others.
Commit to one networking activity per week, whether it’s reaching out to a former colleague, attending an industry event, or joining a professional group. Over time, these small actions will build a network that accelerates your career growth.
Why Now
Clarity, growth, and networking don’t happen overnight. They require intention, effort, and guidance. But the good news is that every step you take compounds over time, bringing you closer to the career you desire.
Imagine yourself a year from now: You’ve built meaningful connections, aligned your career with your values, and positioned yourself as a leader ready for the next level. That vision isn’t just possible—it’s achievable.
But here’s the truth: you are not alone. My Linkedin message is full of people, just reaching out to connect.
Let’s Create
As a career and life coach, I’ve worked with professionals just like you who were ready to take control of their career trajectory but didn’t know where to start. Together, we can clarify your goals, build your confidence, and create a customized roadmap to success.
If you’re ready to change waiting for someone to taking action yourself, I invite you to reach out. Let’s work together to expand your funnel, cultivate your growth mindset, and design the career you’ve been dreaming about.
Start today building a career and life that energizes you. Don’t let another year go by stuck in the same place. Your next breakthrough is closer than you think—take the first step today.
An interesting anecdote I will share with you. People spend a great deal of time in college, networking, volunteering, attending happy hours, etc. in college and when they first get a job. Then something happens, life takes over, and people spend less time, networking, engaging, happy hours, volunteering. The do their job, do it well, and grow in their position. They hit a wall and struggle to get through the wall. Let’s rekindle the work required to hurdle the wall in the same way you did when you began your career.
Step 3: Balancing Career with Personal Energy
Reignite Your Passion for Work
When you think about your career, does it feel like a source of inspiration or obligation? For many professionals, the spark that once ignited their passion for work dims over time. Long hours, constant demands, and a lack of meaningful challenges can leave you feeling drained. But here’s the truth: you can reignite that passion—it’s still within you.
Why did you choose this career in the first place? Take sometime to get back to the Why. Why did the position excite you or align with your values? Sometimes, simply reframing your responsibilities or finding opportunities to make a greater impact can breathe new life into your work.
For example, Greg, a director I coached rediscovered his passion by taking on a mentorship role. Guiding younger professionals not only reinvigorated his interest in his industry but also positioned him as a respected leader. Small shifts in perspective and responsibility can create big changes in how you feel about your work.
Set aside 30 minutes this week to reflect on what originally drew you to your field. Then identify one small action you can take to align your daily tasks with your passions, such as volunteering for a project that excites you or suggesting an improvement in an area you care about.
Master Your Work-Life Energy Flow
Career success shouldn’t come at the cost of your well-being. Too often, professionals pour all their energy into work, leaving little left for personal fulfillment. The result? Burnout, strained relationships, and a growing sense of dissatisfaction. The key to thriving professionally and personally lies in mastering your energy flow.
Start by setting clear boundaries. Work will always demand more if you let it, but protecting your time and mental space is crucial. This might mean avoiding emails after a certain hour, taking regular breaks during the day, or creating rituals to transition between work and home life.
Next, focus on self-care. Self-care isn’t indulgent; it’s necessary. Simple practices like regular exercise, mindfulness, or even prioritizing a good night’s sleep can dramatically improve your energy levels and focus.
In two prior roles, I was able to use an extended lunch to exercise. I needed the break between meetings, to clear my head and expend some energy from the morning before I embarked on afternoon meetings. The gyms were close enough and equipped with showers so I used the time to reconnect with my physical self.
Design a morning and evening routine tailored to your needs. In the morning, include activities that energize you, such as exercise, journaling, or goal-setting. In the evening, create a wind-down routine that helps you mentally and emotionally transition out of work mode.
Celebrate your wins. Too many professionals focus solely on the next goal without pausing to acknowledge their achievements. Taking time to appreciate how far you’ve come not only boosts your morale but also recharges your motivation. Are you like many others, work very hard on a project or something at work and then when it is finally over, you demean the amount of work you did or what it meant to you. Change that and celebrate.
Daily Habits
Success is built on the small, consistent actions you take each day. If you’re looking to maintain the energy and excitement you need to thrive, focus on creating habits that support your goals. This could be as simple as dedicating 10 minutes daily to reflect on what’s going well or scheduling regular physical activities with yourself, taking a date night with another, spending time with childress. Assess how balanced your life feels. Habits aren’t just about discipline—they’re about alignment. The more your daily routines reflect your priorities, the easier it becomes to stay motivated and energized.
Design Your Blueprint
Balancing career success with personal energy isn’t just about surviving the day—it’s about creating a life where you’re thriving in every aspect. This process requires intentionality, guidance, and sometimes a nudge in the right direction. That’s where I come in.
As your career and life coach, I can help you identify what’s draining your energy, create strategies to restore balance, and design a schedule that supports your long-term goals. Together, we’ll build a blueprint for success that empowers you to excel at work and still have the time and energy to enjoy your personal life.
If you’re ready to stop feeling burned out and start thriving, I invite you to reach out. Don’t wait until you’re completely drained to make a change. Your energy is your most valuable resource—let’s make sure you’re using it wisely.
Picture this: you wake up each morning energized and ready to tackle the day. At work, you’re focused, productive, and aligned with your purpose. And when the day ends, you leave the office with enough energy to be fully present for the people and activities you love. Reach out today, and let’s work together to build the career and life you deserve. Success isn’t just about what you achieve; it’s about how you feel while achieving it.
Step 4: Accountability
Why Accountability Matters
When it comes to career growth, knowledge and ambition are important, but they’re not enough. The real game-changer is accountability. It’s what keeps you focused, motivated, and moving forward even when challenges arise or the initial excitement wanes.
Accountability acts as your guidepost. It helps you set clear goals, track progress, and stay on course when distractions or doubts threaten to derail you. Professionals who embrace accountability are far more likely to achieve promotions, expand their influence, and build the careers they envision. Why? Because accountability adds structure and intention to your efforts.
Think about it: how many times have you set a goal, only to let it fall by the wayside because no one was holding you accountable? When you’re answerable to someone—whether it’s a mentor, a coach, or even a peer group—you’re less likely to settle for excuses and more likely to take consistent action.
Mentors and Coaches
One of the most effective ways to build accountability into your career journey is by working with someone who can provide guidance and encouragement. Mentors and coaches are invaluable because they offer perspective, share insights from their own experiences, and help you stay aligned with your goals.
A mentor might help you navigate workplace dynamics, while a coach challenges you to think bigger, act bolder, and focus on results. Together, they ensure you’re not just setting goals but also actively pursuing them.
Jonathan, an executive who felt stuck in his role. Through regular coaching sessions, we created a roadmap that included clear milestones and accountability check-ins. Over six months, he not only exceeded his targets but also developed the confidence and strategy to secure a leadership role in another division.
Your Network
Accountability doesn’t stop with mentors or coaches. Building a “tribe” of supportive peers can also accelerate your growth. Surround yourself with people who challenge you, encourage you, and celebrate your wins. These relationships provide a built-in accountability system while fostering collaboration and inspiration. Take advantage of the 1,000 Linkedin connections you have. Network, engage, and share.
Join professional groups, mastermind sessions, or networking organizations where you can connect with like-minded individuals. Sharing your goals and progress with a trusted circle adds another layer of motivation to stay on track.
Your Call to Action
If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, accountability is the key. But you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. I specialize in helping professionals like you create clear goals, stay accountable, and achieve extraordinary results. I challenge you to expand and engage your network, just like my coach has done for me.
Let’s work together to build the structure and momentum you need to thrive. Reach out today, and let’s create a plan that turns your career aspirations into reality. Success is waiting—are you ready to claim it?
Ten years ago, I moved to a new city. My coach gave me an assignment to reach out to 3 executives from 3 companies I was familiar each week. My task was to reach out, connect, and secure a cup of coffee or 15 minute meeting with each one. Sound drastic, but it worked and man oh man, was it effective. It boost my confidence like no other exercise has since.
Step 5: Your 10-Step Checklist for Career Transformation
What Success Looks Like
Imagine this: you’re not just waking up to another day of work—you’re waking up with purpose, excitement, and a clear vision for your future. You walk into your office (or open your laptop) with confidence, knowing you’re working toward goals that align with your values and ambitions. At the end of the day, you leave with energy and fulfillment, ready to enjoy your personal life to the fullest.
This isn’t just a dream—it’s a reality you can create. But getting there requires intentional action. It’s about taking the leap, committing to your growth, and following a roadmap that leads to success.
Your 10-Step Checklist for Career Transformation
Define Your Career VisionReflect on where you want to be in 1, 3, and 5 years. Write down specific goals that align with your values and passions.
Identify Your Strengths and WeaknessesConduct an honest self-assessment. What are your greatest assets? Where do you need to grow? Use this awareness to focus your efforts.
Set SMART GoalsEnsure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, “Secure a leadership role within 12 months by developing XYZ skills.”
Build a Growth MindsetEmbrace challenges as opportunities. When setbacks arise, ask, “What can I learn from this?” Cultivate resilience through continuous learning.
Expand Your Professional NetworkCommit to connecting with at least one new person each week, whether through LinkedIn, professional events, or internal company projects.
Seek Mentorship or CoachingFind someone who can provide guidance and accountability. A mentor shares wisdom, while a coach helps you take actionable steps toward your goals.
Prioritize Energy ManagementEstablish routines that support your well-being, like morning exercise, mindfulness practices, or setting work boundaries.
Celebrate Your WinsAcknowledge your progress, no matter how small. Recognizing your achievements builds momentum and keeps you motivated.
Stay AccountableShare your goals with someone you trust, like a coach or a peer group, and schedule regular check-ins to evaluate your progress.
Take Consistent ActionCommit to daily steps that move you closer to your goals. Consistency, even in small doses, is the secret to lasting success.
Your Journey Starts Now
This checklist is your starting point, but transforming your career is a journey—and you don’t have to take it alone. As your career and life coach, I’ll help you create a personalized roadmap that aligns with your ambitions and guides you to success.
Picture this: waking up each morning fueled with the excitement to begin the day with purpose. Stepping to a career that aligns with your value, and leaving each day with energy to continue your life. This my friend, is your future, waiting to be claimed.
The time to take the leap is now. Are you ready to claim your future?
Let’s Make It Happen!
Joining me on your journey to making 2025, the year of energy.Transformation isn’t a solo journey—it’s one that’s faster and more impactful with the right guides, networks, mentors.
As your coach, I’m here to help you design your roadmap, hold you accountable, and celebrate your wins along the way. Together, we’ll turn your goals into reality and create a future you’ll love waking up to every day.
Don’t let another day pass by wishing for change. Make it happen. Reach out now, and let’s start building the career and life you’ve always envisioned. Your journey starts today. Let’s take that leap together—because your best days are just ahead.
Happy journey!
Dr. Jim Ruth
469-840-2400
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