“That colleague only got where they are because they can talk the talk!” a client said to me indignantly, their voice full of frustration and resentment.
“Does everything really have to rely solely on practical ability?” I asked in return.
He paused for a moment, falling silent as if something had just dawned on him.
In the workplace, many people see themselves as diligent, serious, and detail-oriented, yet they bristle at those who seem to excel at talking rather than doing. Nevertheless, these “talkers” often get promotions and pay raises more easily. This sense of injustice can cause us to overlook a crucial point: are they truly undeserving, or are our own limiting beliefs holding us back?
These “limiting beliefs” act like invisible chains in our professional lives. They can subtly lower our efficiency and slow our growth. If you’ve ever felt exhausted by certain “professional beliefs,” this article may shine some light on the subject.
Table of Contents:
- What Is a Limiting Belief, and Why Does It Block Success?
- Shifting Perspectives: From Burnout to Career Rebirth
- From Limiting Beliefs to Professional Wisdom – Three Key Transformations
1. What Is a Limiting Belief, and Why Does It Block Success?
A belief is a subjective idea, not a universal truth. Yet it works like a filter that makes us think “this is how the world is, and that’s the correct way to see it.” Limiting beliefs often come from our cultural background, family upbringing, or life experiences. They act as invisible chains, quietly shaping our behavior and decisions.
People in Taiwan, for example, often grow up with certain deeply ingrained ideas such as “There’s no such thing as a free lunch,” “Those who endure hardship rise above others,” or “Eloquence rarely goes hand in hand with sincerity.” Over time, these become internalized as firm “beliefs.”
For example:
- “Hard work is more important than anything else; heaven rewards those who toil.”
- “It’s better to be hands-on than just talk a good game.”
These beliefs can push us to “do more” to prove our worth, all while overlooking the growing importance of communication and strategic thinking in the modern workplace. As the workload piles up and the pressure increases, we realize that sheer effort alone doesn’t necessarily guarantee success.
2. Shifting Perspectives: From Burnout to Career Rebirth
Years ago, when I was transferred to Paris, I experienced a period in which my personal values collided with a series of psychological roadblocks.
At the global headquarters of a large corporation, devising strategies, making proposals, and “selling” those strategies to every level of the organization took up the majority of my time. Yet, there were still plenty of project management and business analysis tasks to handle. Initially, balancing these two sides was overwhelming, as no matter how hard I worked, I couldn’t seem to become more efficient, and the load never seemed to lighten.
At that time, I noticed two main types of people around me:
- Those who excelled at using words and building relationships at headquarters, particularly skilled at managing upward (i.e., interacting with top executives). They spoke compellingly about strategy but were less familiar with on-the-ground execution in various countries.
- Managers who were sent from different parts of the world—“battle-tested warriors” unafraid of hard work—who strove to do their jobs while standing up for their home markets.
I fit into the second group, proud of my solid technical expertise. I believed every strategy needed robust data, thorough analysis, and truly original ideas. I was often astonished to see people who seemed to win over the bosses with proposals that weren’t even feasible.
But over time, I realized these “talkers” moved with ease, while I felt like I was trudging through a wilderness with a heavy backpack.
One day, after leading a major meeting and receiving praise from top management, I found myself in tears on a street in Paris. It wasn’t sadness—I was just utterly exhausted.
It struck me then: “If a little flattery can solve a problem, why am I killing myself with effort?”
Indeed, talking doesn’t mean lacking real skills. In fact, knowing when and how to talk is an additional strength. So I allowed myself to adopt methods I’d previously dismissed, to push past my comfort zone and try new approaches. Though it wasn’t easy, I gradually uncovered a more flexible and complete version of myself.
3. From Limiting Beliefs to Professional Wisdom – Three Key Transformations
Limiting beliefs are deeply rooted in our psyche and often intertwined with our sense of self. We worry, “If I change, will I lose who I really am?” But the truth is quite the opposite:
Breaking free from limiting beliefs is not a betrayal of the self; it’s unleashing more potential to become a fuller version of who we are.
In my coaching experience, many high-level professionals face similar dilemmas. They become fixated on “the right way” at the expense of “the most effective way.” Coaching can help clarify these deeply rooted beliefs and systematically guide you in transforming them. Here are three critical changes:
- Redefine “competence” Traditionally, competence is all about action and execution, often ignoring the importance of persuasion and influence. Sometimes, telling a good story that captures people’s attention can be just as important as hard data.
- Practice “saying the right words” instead of “the whole truth” Not every situation calls for complete honesty at full volume. In the professional world, “appropriate words at the right time” can have the most significant impact. This isn’t dishonesty; it’s strategic communication.
- Move from “going it alone” to “forming strategic alliances” Learn to seek out resources and support, leveraging personal relationships and organizational power to achieve your goals. This approach lessens your burden and boosts overall results.
Professional growth often arises when we dare to reflect and make changes. If you frequently feel blocked or notice a recurring obstacle holding you back in your career, it may be time to explore new possibilities.
Whether you’re seeking a more efficient work style or hoping to break through personal barriers, I’d be delighted to be your partner on this journey. Check out my career coaching services to discover how we can overcome the hurdles and help you thrive in your professional life!