Overcoming Professional Setbacks

I've recently suffered a major career setback. Since I teach about high performance and career growth, I want to share how I am addressing it. One day you will need this recipe yourself! My goal in my current "career" is to reach as many people as I can, and to help them achieve career success and satisfaction. For the last three years, the way to do this has been through LinkedIn. Unfortunately, LinkedIn recently made some unknown changes to their algorithm. Other Top Voices and I have noticed a drop of 70% to 80% in the reach of our posts. Since my goal is to share my knowledge with more people, that means my goal just took an 80% hit. In general, setbacks in performance are either due to: A) Something we did Or B) Something external, outside our direct control Mistakes, poor decisions, and missed deadlines are examples of A. They are in our control. Things like Covid, high interest rates, and reorganizations at work are examples of B, outside our control. LinkedIn's change is also case B, outside my control. When a setback comes from something in your control, you know clearly what you did wrong and what you need to change to restore your performance and progress. Fixing your own issues may take time and be difficult, but you know what to do. When the setback is due to something outside your control, you do not know how to fix the issue. So, how can we react when our performance is shattered and we do not know why? Here is my recipe: 1. Allow yourself a fixed amount of time to grieve (and complain if you wish). Emotions are real, and before you can move on you will need to sit with those emotions. But, do not get stuck in them. Curse your bad luck, pout for a minute, etc. Then, move to the next step. 2. Refocus on your core value. Whatever happened, go back to how you define high performance to ensure it is still relevant. I admit, I slipped into defining my own performance by how many people viewed my LinkedIn posts. This was a mistake. My mission is to help others, so getting views is a proxy, not a result. And, using LinkedIn is just a method for the mission, not the mission itself. 3. Adapt your core value if you must (if its value has decreased). In my case, the value of what I offer hasn't changed, the external delivery system has. 4. Once you adapt and/or increase your value, find new ways to deliver it if necessary. Luckily, I have other options for reaching people: my Substack newsletter, YouTube, etc. Since Substack has been such a good partner recently, I will start there. I have also refocused how I write on LinkedIn to make every post focused on my goal. 5. Test, measure, adapt, repeat! Really, this step is everything. Once you get past the grief, jump into action in this loop. Nothing can stop you if you keep working to refine, deliver, and showcase your core value. Comments? Here's my newsletter, which is my next area of investment: https://lnkd.in/gXh2pdK2

What’s really holding you back? Spoiler alert: It’s not your skills. How many times have you felt like you’re not up for the job? That you’re not qualified? Or that someone else could do it better? Here’s the reality: ➡️ 13% of employees and 20% of senior managers admit they frequently feel like a fraud. ➡️ 54% of women report experiencing imposter syndrome, compared to 38% of men. I get it, because I’ve been there. I used to struggle with being visible - giving speeches, creating content online, even doing TV interviews. Despite decades of experience, there was always a little voice in my head whispering: “Do people really want to hear from you? What if they laugh at you?” Here’s the truth: It’s not based on facts - it’s just the noise in our heads. Here’s how you can overcome imposter syndrome and show up like you deserve to: 1/ The Imposter Loop ↳ You doubt every win and question every achievement. ↳ Own your story: You earned your seat at the table. ↳ Write down three wins you’re proud of. Seeing them silences the noise. 2/ The Permission Trap ↳ You wait to feel ready or for someone to say “go.” ↳ Stop waiting: Start before you’re ready. ↳ Set a deadline and commit publicly - action builds momentum faster than waiting for confidence to strike. 3/ The Comparison Game ↳ You stalk others’ success and compare your chapter 1 to their chapter 20. ↳ Run your own race: Their doubts, fears, and failures aren’t in the highlight reel. ↳ Unfollow or mute accounts that trigger self-doubt. Focus on progress, not perfection. 4/ The Perfectionism Loop ↳ You polish endless drafts, overthink every detail, and never feel “good enough.” ↳ Launch at 80%: Fix it in flight. Done is better than perfect. ↳ Set a timer for your next task and stop when it’s ‘good enough.’ Progress beats perfection every time. 5/ The Silence Spiral ↳ You keep your struggles hidden and pretend you’ve got it all figured out. ↳ Share your story: You’ll be surprised how many people say “me too.” ↳ Find a peer or mentor and share one struggle you’re facing. Vulnerability builds connection. 6/ The Safety Net ↳ You stay in your comfort zone and call it “being realistic.” ↳ Take the leap: Growth lives outside your comfort zone. ↳ Identify one “safe” habit you’re clinging to. Replace it with one bold action, no matter how small. 7/ The Knowledge Shield ↳ You hide behind preparation, waiting to know “just one more thing.” ↳ Start doing: Expertise comes from action. ↳ Turn learning into doing: Commit to acting on one idea from the last book, course, or workshop you completed. What would be possible if you silenced those doubts once and for all? For me, it meant saying yes to opportunities I used to avoid - like speaking on stage and sharing my story. ⤵️ Have you ever felt like a fraud despite your accomplishments? How did you work through it? ♻️ Share this post to remind someone they’re not alone. 🔔 Follow me, Jen Blandos, for advice on business, entrepreneurship, and well-being.

My candidate landed her 12 LPA dream job after a 2-year career gap… Most recruiters and job seekers treat career gaps like a red flag. Every week, I see talented professionals sabotaging their comeback because they hide, apologize, or downplay what those years actually taught them. A gap on your resume is not a gap in your value. If you’re still letting your “break” break you, you’re missing out big time. Here’s how my candidate turned her break into a breakthrough: 1. She Flaunted the Gap, Not Hid It Instead of shrinking away, she owned her story: “During my sabbatical, I upskilled in data analytics, freelanced for two startups, and volunteered to build digital processes for an NGO.” Recruiters at top companies love candidates who show initiative even off the clock! 2. Quantified Every Achievement She replaced generic lines with hard numbers: “Automated reports, saving 15 weekly hours for a non-profit.” “Managed 6 campaigns as a freelancer, boosting client traffic by 40%.” Resumes with quantified impact get 2x the recruiter callbacks! 3. Nailed Her Story in the Interview We practiced a clear, honest narrative for the “career gap” question. Example: “I took time to care for my family and during that time, I built digital workflows and launched a side project that solved a real problem. Those skills are relevant for your team at Deloitte.” She shifted focus from absence to VALUE. 4. Used Smart Networking (not just applications) She reached out to former colleagues working at her dream companies, attended webinars, and asked for informational interviews. Result? Insider referrals and warm intros, no “cold” interviews. 5. Upgraded Her LinkedIn for 2025 Profile before: “Looking for opportunities.” Profile after: “Data Analyst | Delivered digital strategy for non-profits. Passionate about driving impact with numbers.” She also shared a short post about her upskilling journey (which got recruiters DMing her!). 💡 My top pro tips for candidates returning after a gap: ➡ Add a short “Career Break” entry in your resume. ➡ Highlight any freelance project you worked on, or courses you completed during your gap. ➡ Prepare a 60-second, positive story about your break. ➡ Focus on what you bring NOW, not what you “missed.” Your career gap is only a problem if you let it be. It can be your power move — the proof that you’re adaptable, proactive, and resilient. It’s not about the time you took off. It’s about how ready you are to grow next. #career #careergap #careerbreak #interviewtips #jobsearch #interviewpreparation #linkedinforcreators

What if we stopped the strategy vs. execution debate and recognized that strategy and execution actually work best in tandem, evolving together. Over and over again, we hear executives talking about the struggle to bridge the gap between strategy formulation and execution, indicating of course that many strategies are not effectively rolled out. 🤷♀️ It has been this way for years and it has taken us too long to realize that traditional set-in-stone strategic plans simply don't work. And neither do execution plans that focus on implementing a predefined strategy. Companies need agile adaptable strategies that respond to real-time challenges. Even if they have a 10 year plan, they still need a REAL-TIME PLAN. It's time to stop viewing strategy as a strict roadmap, and see it as a living framework—something that evolves with our teams, customers, and markets. This way of working requires a mindset of 'doing informs direction' Instead of viewing strategy as a separate, upfront blueprint that’s followed by execution, this approach integrates the two: strategy becomes a fluid process that evolves as teams execute and learn. Traditionalists may struggle with this shift because we are essentially talking about blending strategy and execution from the start- they may even question how to even do it. So, here's a few simple tips: ✳️ 1. Set Up Simple Monitoring and Reporting Systems Instead of waiting for annual reviews, create regular (even monthly) check-ins where teams report on progress and challenges. Encourage them to flag areas where adapting the strategy would be beneficial (means they have to read it regularly). ✳️ 2. Make Updates Part of the Plan: Integrate a simple versioning process ( even quarterly). When adjustments are made, update a “living document” with clear markers noting each update’s rationale and potential impact. This way, everyone works from the same strategic blueprint—just updated as needed. ✳️ 3. Designate Strategy ‘Owners’: Assign individuals or teams as “owners” of specific strategic areas. Their role is to ensure consistency, track changes, and gather insights on what’s working and what needs refinement. This approach makes it easier to manage updates and stay aligned. ✳️ 4. Keep the Big Picture in View: While it’s important to focus on real-time changes, stay connected to your overall goals. Each adjustment should still support the long-term vision. Regularly review how all pieces are coming together. 💡This shift is relevant for every industry, but especially fast-changing industries, where it's clear that waiting for annual reviews or rigid plans has led to missed opportunities for growth and adaptation. ❓ What do you think? Do you agree? _________________________________________ I’m Catherine McDonald, a Lean Business and Leadership Development Coach. Follow me for insights on Lean, Leadership, Coaching, and Organizational Behaviour, or visit my website at  www.mcdconsulting.ie for more information.

If I got laid off today here's what I'd do: First, I'd breathe. Just breathe. For 24 hours, I'd let myself feel it all. The shock, the anger, the fear. Then I'd get to work: 1. Refresh my resume. Achievements over responsibilities. Stats. Results over tasks. 2. Same with my LinkedIn profile. Update, refresh. Highlight accomplishments and measurable impacts. 3. Reach out to people in my network. Not with "I need a job" messages, but with genuine reconnections. On LinkedIn and any other communities. 4. Build in public. Share my journey, what I'm learning, the wins and the struggles. 5. Avoid wasting time on job boards. I'd find decision-makers and build relationships instead. 6. Protect my mental health. Fiercely. Morning routines. Exercise. Time blocks for applications and networking, with clear boundaries. And, most importantly: I’d put a post-it note somewhere visible to remind myself MY WORTH ISN’T TIED TO MY EMPLOYMENT STATUS. I know this path intimately. Both from personal experience and from guiding hundreds through it. The toughest part of being laid off isn't the job loss. It's the identity crisis that follows. But sometimes your greatest career breakthrough is on the other side of what feels like failure. It was for me. What would you add to this list? What helped you bounce back from a career setback?

“So… what did you do during that gap in your career?” There it is. The question that makes stomachs tighten, palms sweat. The question that makes too many talented people shrink in their seats instead of standing tall. But what if that gap was actually your superpower? I see this all the time - career breaks become something to explain away, a quiet apology in the resume. But here’s what I’ve learned—those gaps? They’re full of stories, growth, and resilience. And how you tell that story changes everything. Here’s how to take control of the narrative: 👉 Family Care "I stepped away to care for my family, which deepened my skills in time management, problem-solving, and navigating high-stakes situations—essential for leadership and collaboration. In this role, I learned to balance priorities under pressure, a skill that directly applies to [specific job role/company].” 👉 Health & Well-being “I took time to prioritize my health, which taught me the importance of resilience and sustainable work habits. Now, I bring a renewed energy and focus to [company], ready to contribute with clarity and purpose.” 👉 Education & Upskilling "During my break, I pursued [specific skill/qualification], strengthening my ability to [relevant job function]. This investment in growth ensures I stay ahead of industry trends, bringing fresh expertise to [company]." 👉 Burnout Recovery “I recognized the signs of burnout and made a choice to step back, recalibrate, and return stronger. This experience has given me a deeper understanding of workplace well-being, making me a more effective leader and contributor to [company’s] culture.” 👉 Passion Projects & Exploration “I used this time to immerse myself in [personal project/travel/volunteering], which expanded my perspective and sharpened skills in [creativity, cultural awareness, adaptability]. This ability to think differently and problem-solve is an asset for [company].” 👉 Career Redirection “This pause led me to a powerful realization: my true passion lies in [new industry/role]. I invested in developing [new skills] and am now equipped to bring fresh insights and energy to [company].” A career break isn’t a gap—it’s a chapter. And when you own that chapter, others will listen. How have you reframed your career break story? Let’s normalize these conversations. TYFU Leah-Brooke Mano

Have you ever written a personal Failure Log? It’s a simple but powerful self-improvement technique which builds mental resilience. Setbacks happen in everyone’s career journey. But documenting the decisions and circumstances that lead to failure will let you transform defeats into lessons and strengthen your capacity to bounce back. It’s easy to do too. Here’s how to write a Failure Log: Pick a format (spreadsheet, notebook, or digital journal) and a frequency (weekly is good for reflection). For each entry, answer: - What went wrong? - What did I learn? - How will I change my approach next time?   Use one or two sentences to answer each question. Stay objective. Use a neutral tone (“I didn’t delegate enough tasks”) rather than inflammatory statements (“I’m terrible at managing projects”). Focus on describing events and lessons, rather than beating yourself up. The aim is insight, not self-blame. Review your entries every month or two to spot patterns — maybe you sometimes underestimate timelines or often fail to communicate well enough with stakeholders. Over time, you’ll course-correct with consistent strategies. Celebrating your successes is important, but objectively acknowledging your failures will often yield the most impactful lessons. A Failure Log can be a transformative tool to consistently improve your outcomes. Best of all, over time you’ll develop a more resilient form of confidence — grounded in reality, not wishful thinking. What techniques do you use to learn from your own professional setbacks?

More mistakes = more lessons The more mistakes you make, the more lessons you gain. 

It's important not to rely solely on theory or focus only on your successes. 

Embrace your failures and view them as valuable learning opportunities. 

Each mistake provides practical insights that theory alone cannot offer and helps you grow both personally and professionally. 

By analysing and understanding your missteps, you can develop better strategies, avoid repeating the same errors, and ultimately achieve greater success. 

Expanding your focus beyond successes ensures a well-rounded approach to growth and continuous improvement. 1. Reflect on Mistakes: - Daily or Weekly Reviews: Set aside time to review your actions and decisions regularly. Reflect on what went wrong and why. - Journaling: Keep a journal of your mistakes and the lessons learned from each one.
 2. Seek Feedback: - Peer Reviews: Ask colleagues or mentors for constructive feedback on your work and decisions. - Open Communication: Create an environment where team members feel comfortable discussing their mistakes and what they learned.
 3. Analyse and Document: - Root Cause Analysis: Use techniques like the "5 Whys" or fishbone diagrams to understand the root causes of mistakes. - Documentation: Document mistakes and their causes in a shared repository for future reference and team learning.
 4. Create a Learning Culture: - Celebrate Learning: Recognise and reward employees who identify mistakes and share their lessons. - Encourage Experimentation: Foster an environment where calculated risks and experimentation are encouraged, even if they result in

I do Feel worthless — but is it normal? Yes, it is. Everyone, at some point, goes through moments when they feel they’re not enough — not doing enough, not achieving enough, or simply not being valued. It’s a deeply human feeling, especially when things don’t go as planned or when comparisons creep in. Here’s how to make a comeback: 1. Pause and reflect: Identify what triggered the feeling — a failed project, feedback, or comparison. Awareness is the first step. 2. Shift focus to learning: Every setback teaches something. Reframe it as growth, not failure. 3. Revisit your wins: Go through past achievements or feedback to remind yourself of your value. 4. Seek perspective: Talk to a mentor or colleague — fresh viewpoints often restore clarity. 5. Set small wins: Rebuild momentum with achievable goals. Remember, your worth isn’t defined by success or validation — it’s inherent.

In the traditional business landscape, strategy formulation often takes precedence over execution. However, what if reversing this order could unlock greater success? Here’s why focusing on execution first can be a game-changer for organizations: 1. Real-World Insight: Prioritizing execution allows organizations to gather practical insights and align strategies with actual conditions. This ensures plans are based on real-world data rather than theoretical assumptions. 2. Continuous Learning: Execution fosters a culture of continuous learning. As organizations implement their strategies, they collect valuable feedback, allowing them to refine their approaches and adapt to changing circumstances. 3. Adaptive Flexibility: In today's fast-paced market, adaptability is crucial. By emphasizing execution, organizations can quickly respond to market changes, ensuring their strategies remain relevant and effective. 4. Stakeholder Engagement: Early execution involves stakeholders directly, fostering a sense of ownership and alignment. This collaborative approach ensures everyone is committed to the same strategic goals, reducing resistance and enhancing commitment. 5. Tangible Outcomes: Focusing on execution drives measurable results. This practical emphasis ensures that strategies are not just theoretical exercises but are translated into actions that generate real value for the organization. How to Use This Info: 1. Analyze Your Current Context: Before diving into strategy design, thoroughly understand your organization’s current situation. Align your strategy with real-world conditions and constraints. 2. Learn from Past Initiatives: Review significant projects and initiatives from the past year. Identify what worked and what didn’t. Use these insights as input for your strategic planning. 3. Identify Immediate Actions: Even while formulating your strategy, identify actions you can take right away. There’s always something you can start doing. Implement these actions and adapt as you learn. 4. Engage Stakeholders Early: Develop early initiatives that engage stakeholders. This helps build commitment and alignment. Use these early initiatives to gather feedback and improve your approach. 5. Focus on Measurable Results: Aim for early, tangible outcomes. Use these initial successes to demonstrate accountability and to show that your strategy is practical and effective. While strategy formulation is crucial for setting direction, focusing on execution first highlights the importance of turning plans into action. By executing and learning from the process, organizations can refine their strategies, enhance their chances of success, and achieve sustainable growth.