In my career, I am in responsible position in my organization where I am working from past 11 years. I am in situation where management is doubting my integrity from year or so (Which is not true, but few influential colleagues have created this opinion because of certain conflicts and ego) and I am not getting growth opportunities freely and I feel people are not openly accepting and appreciating my efforts and hard work. This is creating hardships for me, I want break this stigma about me and work freely as earlier, which am trying but feel, it is not working. Will it take time, should I wait for it to change by doing work or should I look for some new opportunities. The dilemma is because I had thought this job is my long time career option and looks like it has become a comfort zone considering my it is in my native, decent salary, children started their schooling now and spouse is also working nearby. It feels hard some times to face people and their reactions, my growth opportunities are getting delayed or in limbo. How to Handle this kind of situation, please advice.

Dear Kalpesh,

Many of us face this situation in this stage of our careers.

It’s something I have faced as well.

I can share what I have learnt from my experience; I hope it will help you.

1. Reinvent yourself. Upgrade your competencies; take up some courses in your field from a reputed institute.

2. Set clear goals and expectations with your manager. You don't have to be a 'yes man', but you must be aligned with the goals of your manager and the organisation at large.

3. Have a career discussion with your manager. Clearly express what you are looking for in your career and what help you need from the management.

4. Move out of your core area of functioning. For example, you could move from project management to analytics, strategy or even sales.

5. Ensure that you have a good financial plan to secure the future of your family.

Hi.

These are some practical things you can do to help you resolve most of the issues you shared.

1. Start your day early with some positive thoughts and physical activity. The way you begin your day determines how the rest of the day will go.

2. Spend quality time with your family.

3. Do practise some meditation or yoga as that will help you increase your concentration.

4. Keep your cell phone away from you when at work; check it once, for five minutes, every hour.

5. Find a good mentor at work with whom you can share your concerns openly.

6. Engage in your hobbies.

7. Get good quality sleep.

Hi.

I would suggest that you focus on your job and enjoy the well-deserved promotion that you have got after a long time.

Office politics is there in many organisations, so don’t let that bother you.

If you ignore them, they will also stop bothering you.