Experience has shown me how these three traps can sabotage your desire to continue developing skills that will support you in advancing and growing in your role and effectiveness as a leader. These are three of the key traps many of us, highly talented, high-achieving women and leaders, must contend with the prioritization trap, the presence trap, and the execution trap.

Today, let’s explore three invisible forces that can hinder your leadership growth and sabotage your best intentions. Whether you’re just starting your leadership journey or a seasoned executive, these challenges can affect us all and negatively impact your professional development. Let’s break them down.

Prioritization trap: How Saying Yes Can Actually Mean No

We often say yes to new commitments without realizing that doing so will affect a commitment we have made to our professional development. Have you ever said yes to a meeting or task only to see your plans for professional training fall by the wayside? This is one of the most common traps I’ve noticed among women who desire to continue growing, say Yes to themselves, and then drop to the bottom of their list. Today, I’m taking a stand for you. Unless this improves, you’ll keep getting the short end of the stick, and there’s no one to blame for it–not that it would make a difference.

To be impeccable with our words to ourselves, we must commit and prioritize that commitment to ourselves as much as we do those to others in our lives, i.e., our family, our team, our manager, etc. And we need to learn to say no effectively. Consider an external request that conflicts with a pre-set professional development commitment, such as a conference, a leadership masterclass, or an industry event. 

For example, instead of dropping everything to help immediately, you may offer support at different times. “I am available before or after my scheduled event” can ensure you attend to your professional growth priorities without letting others or yourself down. Although it may seem counterintuitive, prioritizing and investing in growth allows you to serve others better.

The Presence Trap: The Quest for Your Full Attention

It’s critical to be fully present when you are fortunate to steal away from the daily hustle and bustle and finally show up for your leadership training commitments. Unfortunately, without ill intent, many of us go on autopilot, physically present but mentally absent, limiting the benefits of such a training opportunity. 

To counteract this, shut down your email, silence your phone, and minimize distractions. This applies to professional settings as well as all areas of life.

 “How you do one thing is how you do everything.”

Fabienne Fredrickson

Engage fully with speakers or participants by asking questions and joining discussions. The more interactive you are, the less likely you’ll drift off. Improving your executive presence starts with mastering the art of focused engagement. If you struggle with distractions, recognize them and take extra measures to create an environment conducive to learning that meets your needs. 

By consistently being “present,” you not only improve your executive presence but also fully engage in the learning activity, connect with others, and give them the gift of your presence. When you return to work, continue to practice being present, and it will enhance your performance at work and beyond.

Execution Trap: Transforming Learning into Action

Attending workshops, seminars, or leadership training sessions is beneficial only if you apply what you’ve learned. Many learners, like us, absorb information but fail to execute it afterward. 

The solution? Actionable follow-ups. After every training session, allocate some time to jot down a few actionable steps you plan to implement. Set reminders to follow through on these actions. 

Most people say Knowledge is power. I disagree and add that Knowledge + Execution = Power. Without applying what we learn, we waste our valuable time and resources. 

Create a support system – mentors, coaches, or even peers – to keep you accountable and provide guidance when needed. This will ensure that your efforts in professional development translate into tangible outcomes, propelling your career forward.

“To truly grow and succeed, you must take ownership of your professional and leadership development.“

Dr. Ginny Baro   

Parting Thoughts & Call to Action

Prioritize your growth and treat it as non-negotiable. This commitment will not only benefit you but also your team and your organization.

Make continuous learning a priority. Recognize and change patterns that hold you back. By owning your leadership development, you set an example that can inspire others and create a positive ripple effect in your workplace.

These traps are subtle but powerful in stalling your growth. You can transform these challenges into opportunities by prioritizing your commitments to enhancing your leadership skills and retooling continuously, being fully present when you “make it,” and following through with actionable steps. 

Breaking through these leadership barriers requires effort and strategy. With dedication and the right support, you can overcome them and keep climbing. Embrace your journey, show up fully, and put what you learn into action. Your future self will thank you!

Question: Which of the three traps do you find most challenging in your leadership journey? Share your thoughts and experiences below—we’d love to hear from you!

Let’s connect if you feel stuck or need support in developing critical leadership skills. Visit our new website’s events page to explore what’s next for you. When you are ready to strategize on overcoming your top challenges and creating a flexible action roadmap, let’s schedule a call with me at CallWithGinny.com. Let’s unlock your true potential together!

Live with purpose, live with joy!  

Coach Ginny