Most people focus on doing things right—working hard, meeting deadlines, networking. But sometimes, what holds us back isn’t a lack of effort, but small mistakes we don’t even realize we’re making. These missteps can add up over time, keeping you stuck in the same place while others move ahead. Here are seven career mistakes you might be making without realizing it.

1. Playing It Too Safe

It’s tempting to stick with what feels comfortable. Maybe you don’t apply for a promotion because you’re not 100% qualified. Maybe you avoid speaking up in meetings because you’re afraid of being wrong. The problem? Growth happens outside of your comfort zone. Taking smart risks—whether it’s asking for more responsibility, suggesting a new idea, or learning a new skill—can open doors. If you never push yourself, you may end up watching others pass you by.

2. Staying in a Job Too Long (Out of Comfort, Not Growth)

Loyalty is admirable, but staying in a job just because it’s familiar can stall your career. If you’re no longer learning or growing, you might be holding yourself back. Ask yourself: Is this job still helping me move forward? Are there new challenges, opportunities, or skills I’m gaining? If not, it might be time to start exploring other options—even if it’s scary.

3. Underestimating the Power of Relationships

You might think that if you do good work, you’ll get ahead. While performance is important, relationships matter just as much—if not more. If you only focus on your tasks and ignore networking, you could miss out on promotions, new opportunities, or even simple support when you need it. Make an effort to build connections with colleagues, mentors, and people outside your immediate team. Relationships can be a game-changer for career growth.

4. Ignoring Soft Skills

Many professionals focus heavily on technical skills but overlook soft skills like communication, emotional intelligence, and leadership. The truth is, people who advance in their careers aren’t just good at their jobs—they’re good at working with others. If you struggle with teamwork, conflict resolution, or public speaking, it’s worth investing time in improving these skills. They might be the missing piece holding you back.

5. Avoiding Difficult Conversations

Whether it’s asking for a raise, addressing a conflict with a coworker, or setting boundaries with a boss, difficult conversations are part of professional life. Avoiding them doesn’t make problems disappear—it just delays them. If you want to grow in your career, you need to be able to have honest, professional discussions, even when they’re uncomfortable. Learning how to communicate assertively and respectfully can make a huge difference in your career trajectory.

6. Neglecting Your Personal Brand

Your reputation matters. If you’re not actively managing your professional image, others will define it for you. This doesn’t mean you have to be an influencer, but you should be mindful of how you present yourself—both in person and online. Are you known for being reliable and hardworking? Or do people associate you with missed deadlines and complaints? Your personal brand can either open doors or close them, so make sure it reflects what you want it to.

Related

7 Career Mistakes You Might Not Realize You’re Making

Seven common career mistakes and how to avoid them.

7. Not Asking for Feedback (or Ignoring It)

Many people fear feedback, but avoiding it is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Constructive criticism is one of the best tools for growth. If you never ask how you can improve, you might be making mistakes you’re unaware of. Worse, if you receive feedback and dismiss it, you’re showing that you’re not open to learning. Regularly seek feedback from bosses, colleagues, and mentors—and then use it to get better.

The Bottom Line

Careers don’t just happen—they’re built, one decision at a time. Sometimes, the things holding us back aren’t obvious until we take a step back and reassess. If any of these mistakes sound familiar, don’t panic. Awareness is the first step to change. By making small adjustments, you can set yourself up for greater success and long-term growth. Your career is in your hands—make sure you’re steering it in the right direction.