5 Signs You’ve Outgrown Your Role (and what to do about it)
At some point in your career, you may start to recognise that what once excited and motivated you no longer has the same spark. After mastering certain tasks or processes and acquiring a deep understanding of the way a business operates, it can feel like you’ve plateaued.
For some people, this can bring a sense of stability, and an assurance that they can comfortably maintain working at this level a little while longer. And that’s absolutely fine.
But for others, it can feel like they are ‘cruising’ with a lingering fear of being ‘caught out’ for coasting. When this becomes a source of discomfort or frustration, it can start to impact your performance.
If this appears to be more than just a phase; it could be a sign that you've outgrown your role and you’re ready for more.
Here are 5 common signs that indicate it could be time to move on, and what you can do about it…
1. You’re no longer challenged
One of the clearest signs you've outgrown your role is a lack of challenge. If your daily tasks have become repetitive and you no longer feel stretched, it’s likely that your role isn't pushing you to grow. Stagnation can lead to boredom and dissatisfaction, affecting your overall job performance and engagement.
What to do: Seek out opportunities to take on new projects, even if they are outside your current scope. Volunteer for cross-functional teams or involvement in new initiatives. If these opportunities are limited, it might be time to consider roles that align better with your growing skill set.
2. You lack enthusiasm for your work
If you find it difficult to muster up enthusiasm for projects that once excited you, it could be a sign you've outgrown your role. A lack of passion can stem from not feeling you have a clear purpose or not seeing a path for further development within your current position.
What to do: Reflect on what aspects of your work you used to enjoy and what’s changed. Have a candid conversation with your manager about your feelings and explore possibilities for role adjustments. If the conversation doesn’t lead to any promising changes, start considering roles that reignite your passion.
3. You feel undervalued or unrecognised
When you become highly proficient in your role, people naturally grow accustomed to your high standards. What once might have been impressive becomes the expected norm. As a result, your contributions may go unacknowledged, leading to feelings of frustration and futility.
On the other hand, when you consistently perform well, receiving praise or recognition can feel awkward, as it may seem to you like you’re simply ‘doing your job.’
What to do: Start by recognising the value of your work, even if the work feels routine to you. Document your achievements and the impact they’ve had on the organisation - this will help you see your contributions more objectively.
If you’re feeling underappreciated, consider having a conversation with your manager to discuss your career goals and how your efforts align with the company’s success. You might also explore opportunities to take on new challenges that push you out of your comfort zone, which can rekindle your sense of accomplishment and make your contributions stand out once again.
4. You're curious about other opportunities
If you find yourself frequently daydreaming about other job opportunities, constantly refreshing that job search page or feeling envious when your peers land a new job, it's a good indication that your current role is no longer fulfilling.
What to do: Start to identify the industries, companies, or roles that excite you. Network with professionals in those areas and learn about potential opportunities. Update your CV and LinkedIn profile to reflect your readiness for new challenges. Taking these steps will prepare you to make a smooth transition when the right opportunity comes along.
6. You believe you can do it better
Another sign that you’ve outgrown your role is no longer seeing higher level positions as out of reach or believing that you could do a better job than those in more senior positions. If you frequently find yourself frustrated by their decisions, thinking that you could handle situations more effectively, it may be an indication that you’re ready for more responsibility.
This frustration often stems from seeing inefficiencies or missed opportunities that you believe you could address. While it’s natural to occasionally question leadership decisions, consistently feeling this way suggests you have the skills and vision for a more strategic role.
What to do: Instead of letting frustration build, channel it into constructive feedback. Approach your manager with solutions rather than complaints, showcasing your ability to think critically and lead. Consider applying for promotions or exploring opportunities outside your current organisation that align with your aspirations and capabilities.
Outgrowing a role is a natural part of career progression. Recognising the signs early allows you to take proactive steps to ensure continued growth and satisfaction in your professional life, before it starts to impact your performance.
Does any of this ring true for you?
For a complimentary conversation to explore this further and discover what your next step might be, book a call here: