You’re feeling stuck in your career in Operational Planning. What’s the first step to getting unstuck?

If you're feeling stuck in your career in operational planning, you might be wondering how to get out of the rut and advance to the next level. Operational planning is a vital skill that involves coordinating and executing the day-to-day activities of an organization to achieve its goals. But sometimes, you might feel like you're not learning anything new, not getting enough recognition, or not having enough autonomy or influence. What's the first step to getting unstuck? Here are some tips to help you.

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1 Assess your situation

The first step to getting unstuck is to assess your current situation and identify what's holding you back. Is it your skills, your attitude, your boss, your colleagues, your work environment, or something else? Be honest and objective with yourself, and ask for feedback from others if possible. Write down the pros and cons of your current role, and what you would like to change or improve. This will help you clarify your goals and expectations, and pinpoint the gaps and challenges you need to address.

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Derrin Brown

Top 20 Regional & Top 100 Global Event Industry Influencer 2023/4 | Founder, The Mandala Social | Driving Sustainable Event Solutions | Eventex Awards 2025 Judge | Creativity, Collaboration & Quality Espresso
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To navigate out of feeling stuck, begin with an introspective assessment, integrating insights from happiness research that underscores purpose as a pivotal element for life success. Evaluate what's hindering your progress—whether it’s skills, mindset, your boss, colleagues, or your work environment. Encourage feedback from others for a broader perspective. Itemize the pros and cons of your current role, detailing areas for change or enhancement. Find your sense of purpose. Identifying and addressing these gaps with the intention of fulfilling your purpose can significantly boost your personal and professional development, leading towards a more fulfilling and successful life.

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2 Learn new skills

One of the most effective ways to get unstuck is to learn new skills that can enhance your performance, broaden your perspective, and increase your value. Operational planning is a dynamic and evolving field that requires constant adaptation and innovation. You can learn new skills by taking online courses, reading books and articles, attending webinars and workshops, joining professional networks and communities, or asking for mentoring or coaching. Learning new skills will not only boost your confidence and competence, but also demonstrate your initiative and commitment to your career.

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Derrin Brown

Top 20 Regional & Top 100 Global Event Industry Influencer 2023/4 | Founder, The Mandala Social | Driving Sustainable Event Solutions | Eventex Awards 2025 Judge | Creativity, Collaboration & Quality Espresso
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To get unstuck, actively pursue new skills relevant to operational planning, a field that demands ongoing innovation. Engage in online courses, read up-to-date materials, attend webinars, join professional networks, and seek mentorship. This continuous learning not only elevates your expertise and widens your outlook but also highlights your commitment to career advancement. Such initiative boosts confidence, showcases adaptability, and aligns with the essence of success: finding purpose and constant growth.

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3 Communicate your aspirations

Another important step to getting unstuck is to communicate your aspirations and achievements to your boss and other relevant stakeholders. Don't assume that they know what you want or what you're capable of. Instead, be proactive and assertive in expressing your interests, ambitions, and value proposition. For example, you can request a meeting with your boss to discuss your career development plan, ask for more challenging or diverse assignments, or seek feedback and recognition for your work. Communicating your aspirations will help you align your goals with the organization's vision and strategy, and create more opportunities for growth and advancement.

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4 Expand your network

A key factor that can influence your career progression is your network. Your network is the source of information, advice, support, and referrals that can help you navigate the challenges and opportunities in your field. To expand your network, you need to be intentional and strategic in building and maintaining relationships with people who can help you achieve your goals. You can expand your network by attending events and conferences, joining online forums and groups, reaching out to former colleagues and classmates, or volunteering for projects and causes. Expanding your network will help you gain more exposure, visibility, and credibility in your industry.

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5 Explore new possibilities

The final step to getting unstuck is to explore new possibilities that can enrich your career and fulfill your potential. Sometimes, you might need to step out of your comfort zone and try something different or unconventional. You can explore new possibilities by applying for a promotion or a lateral move, switching to a different department or organization, starting a side hustle or a freelance project, or pursuing a passion or a hobby. Exploring new possibilities will help you discover new aspects of yourself, challenge your assumptions and limitations, and create more value and impact in your work.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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You’re feeling stuck in your career in Operational Planning. What’s the first step to getting unstuck?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Assess your situation

2 Learn new skills

3 Communicate your aspirations

4 Expand your network

5 Explore new possibilities

6 Here’s what else to consider

Operational Planning

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You’re feeling stuck in your career in Operational Planning. What’s the first step to getting unstuck?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Assess your situation

2 Learn new skills

3 Communicate your aspirations

4 Expand your network

5 Explore new possibilities

6 Here’s what else to consider

Operational Planning

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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