Being Too Good At Your Job Can Be A Trap

Being too good at your job can be a trap.

(And how to get out of this situation)

If you want to move up, do more than just your job.

When you excel at your job, you become:

• A convenient solution for a (bad) boss.
• He will do anything to keep you, even if it hurts the company.

But you have options to change that.

Here’s how:

11 ways to get out of this situation

1. Work on cross-functional projects.

You’ll become more visible to multiple stakeholders.
They will eventually compete for you.

Actionable point:
Volunteer for a project that involves collaborating with a department you haven’t worked with before. Even if it’s outside your comfort zone, the experience and exposure will be interesting.

2. Build relationships:

Build genuine relationships. Connect with colleagues, mentors, and leaders in your field, not just for what they can do for you, but for who they are as people. These connections create a support system that will guide you, challenge you, and open doors to opportunities you never imagined.

Actionable point:
Reach out to one person you admire in your industry this week. Invite them for a virtual coffee or a quick chat. You never know where it might lead.

3. Create systems.

Document your processes:
Create clear, step-by-step guides for your key tasks.
It forces you to think critically about your work, often leading to “aha” moments of improved efficiency.

Actionable point:
Pick ONE task you do regularly and create a simple checklist or step-by-step guide. You’ll be surprised how much clarity (and peace of mind) it brings.

Bonus :
Gain in focus when you execute.
Doing so also makes it easier to concentrate.
I wrote this post following the list below.

4. Train those around you.

Make yourself replaceable. It sounds counterintuitive, but you can take on bigger challenges when you empower your team to handle your responsibilities. This not only accelerates your growth.
It also builds deep loyalty and trust within your team.

Actionable point:
Choose one skill you excel at and commit to teaching it to a colleague. You’ll be amazed at its impact on both of your careers.

Create a succession plan:
Identify and train potential successors for your role.

5. Embrace delegation:

Want to escape the “tyranny of the urgent” and focus on what truly matters?

Master the art of delegation. When you trust your team with tasks that don’t require your unique expertise, you unlock time for strategic thinking that drives real impact.

Actionable point:
Look at your to-do list. Is there ONE task you can delegate to someone else TODAY? Do it, and invest your time in quadrant II. (see below)

To go further, read: How Do You (finally) Focus On Things That Really Matter?

6. Be a problem-solver:

Don’t just fix what’s broken; anticipate challenges before they arise. This proactive approach saves time and resources. It also positions you as an asset to the entire organization.

Actionable Point:
Think of a recurring problem in your workplace. Brainstorm 10 potential solutions and propose the best one to your manager. You’ll be seen as someone who takes initiative.

To go further, read: How to develop the habit of creating ideas?

7. Close your learning GAP

Actively seek out skills relevant to your industry and aspirations.
It will boost your confidence and open doors to new opportunities.

Actionable Point:
Identify ONE skill gap that’s holding you back.
Find a course, book, or coach to help you close that gap within the next 3 months.

8. Clarify your big picture

“What do I really want?”

Take time to reflect on your values, passions, and what you want to achieve.
The more clarity you gain, the faster you’ll move towards a fulfilling and successful career.

Actionable point:
Schedule 30 minutes this week for a “visioning session.”
Write down your ideal career scenario in vivid detail. This will be your North Star.

To go further, read : How to build your life plan?

9. Document your successes:

Keep a running log of your achievements, big or small.
It gives you the energy to persevere.
And will be helpful when it’s time for performance reviews or seeking new opportunities.

Actionable point:
Create a “success journal” where you record your wins each week. Include positive feedback, completed projects, and any contributions that made a difference.

10. Learn to say “No.”

Don’t be afraid to turn down opportunities that don’t align with your goals or values.
Saying “no” to the wrong things creates space for the right things to appear, leading you closer to your dream career.

Actionable point:
The next time you’re asked to do something that doesn’t excite you or move you forward, politely decline. You’ll be surprised how empowering it feels.

11. Don’t seem desperate

Don’t project desperation; instead, approach your career with a sense of confidence and openness.
When you radiate a “I love what I do, AND I’m open to new opportunities” vibe, you become irresistible to potential employers.

Actionable point:
Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your current achievements and aspirations. This signals your openness to new opportunities without seeming desperate.

Don’t just be good. Be strategic.

Your view?

Feeling stuck in your current role, even though you’re good at it?

It’s time to become strategically replaceable. Book a free 30-minute coaching call with me, and let’s explore how to unlock your full potential and create your next opportunity.

Click here to schedule your call today.

See you soon.
Dror

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