Breaking Free: Is Your Career Coiled in a Small Tank?

In a thought-provoking speech, Deshauna Barber, motivational speaker and former Miss USA, shared a story about her pet snake’s growth being limited due to its small tank. Barber used this story to illustrate that, just as the snake’s growth was constrained by its confined space, our personal and professional growth can be hindered by restrictive environments. This powerful metaphor challenges us to consider: Are we thriving in our “tanks”, or is it time for an upgrade? Let’s discuss some telltale signs that your professional “tank” might be getting a bit cramped.

Size Matters

Consider the size of your professional “tank.” A thriving professional environment should be spacious enough to introduce you to novel concepts, methodologies and challenges. If you’re stuck performing the same tasks day after day, your career might have coiled in a small “tank.” How can you tell if your professional environment is too small? Reflect on whether your current position provides avenues for acquiring new skills or tackling new responsibilities.

Mental Nutrients

Think about the “nutrients” in your work ecosystem. A nourishing work setting should feed your curiosity and ambition, empowering you to explore new professional horizons. A lack of intellectual nourishment may impede your ability to maintain a competitive edge and career progression. How do you recognize if you’re deprived of fresh and forward-thinking ideas? Evaluate whether your workplace offers regular training sessions and supports your professional development through mentorship and developmental assignments.

Habitat Diversity

Consider the “habitat diversity” in your professional landscape. A truly diverse “habitat” should expose you to a wide array of perspectives. Limited exposure to diverse viewpoints can stunt your growth as a well-rounded professional. How can you identify if your professional setting is lacking in diversity? Assess the range of experiences available to you, such as the opportunity to attend industry conferences, participate in cross-departmental projects, or engage with thought leaders from various fields.

Comfort Level

Pay attention to your comfort level in your professional “tank.” A thriving professional ecosystem should provide a sense of fulfillment and align with your personal aspirations. If you find yourself feeling unfulfilled, unmotivated, or dreading your workday, it might be a sign that your professional environment is no longer serving your needs. How can you identify signs of a stagnant ecosystem? Take time to reflect on your overall contentment, work-life balance, and how well your current position aligns with your long-term career objectives.

Recognizing these signs is the first step toward “upgrading your tank” to allow for greater growth. This might involve seeking new challenges within your current organization, pursuing further education or training, or even considering a career change. By ensuring you’re in an environment that nurtures this growth, you’re setting yourself up for long-term success. Don’t let your professional ‘tank’ limit your potential – be ready to upgrade when needed and watch yourself grow to new heights!

Adeline (Addy) Maissonet is a Procurement Analyst for the Defense Pricing, Contracting, and Acquisition Policy (DPCAP) within the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD), U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). She serves as a senior advisor on contracting policies and procedures and the agency’s representative on the Department’s views on proposed legislation to Congressional members, their staff, and committee staffers. Prior to her current role, Addy served as a Division Chief and Contracting Officer with unlimited warrant authority for the U.S. Army Mission and Installation Contracting Command (MICC) – Fort Eustis, Virginia. Addy holds an MBA in Management and Contracting Level III Certification under the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act. She is a graduate from Cornell University’s Executive Leadership Certificate Program. In her free time, Addy enjoys hiking and overlanding with her family and friends.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of Defense.

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