What’s Holding You Back from Growth? Here’s How to Move Forward

For many leaders, growth isn’t stopped by a lack of ambition or opportunity. It’s the internal roadblocks that get in the way. Through coaching, I’ve seen time and again how mindset can become the biggest barrier to development. These aren’t always obvious, and often, they’re deeply personal.

Let’s name a few of the most common ones:

• Perfectionism – The belief that if it can’t be done perfectly, it’s not worth doing.

• Imposter syndrome – The internal narrative that says, “I don’t belong here.”

• The need for control – A reluctance to delegate or trust others to deliver.

• A fixed mindset – The belief that leadership traits are static and cannot be improved.

• Fear of failure – The hesitation to take risks or try something new out of fear it won’t work.

• Scarcity thinking – The assumption there isn’t enough: time, resources, energy.

• People-pleasing – Avoiding conflict or accountability in order to keep the peace.

• Identity attachment – Holding on too tightly to titles or roles, afraid that change threatens self-worth.

• Over-reliance on logic – Ignoring the emotional side of leadership and human connection.

• Resistance to vulnerability – Believing that showing struggle or uncertainty is a weakness.

These internal patterns are often invisible to others—but deeply felt by the leader experiencing them. And while they may be common, they’re not permanent. 

Below are a few tools that can help move past these patterns and step into intentional growth.

1. Name It to Tame It

One of the most powerful first steps in overcoming internal barriers is giving them a name. Our thoughts swirl quickly and abstractly, often making them feel bigger or less manageable than they are. But when we use language to express what’s happening internally, we gain clarity and control.

Talking it through with a coach or trusted partner creates even more value because it builds connection and checks understanding. Once something is named, it can be addressed. This process of articulation turns vague feelings into tangible insight and insight leads to action.

2. Fact vs. Fiction

Our minds are wired to create stories, but not every story we tell ourselves is true. A helpful exercise is to split a piece of paper in two columns: Fact and Fiction.

Take a belief you have. Maybe about your performance, your team, or a current challenge. Now, sort your thoughts. What is objectively true? What are assumptions or interpretations? This exercise provides perspective and helps challenge limiting beliefs.

3. Shift From Judgment to Curiosity

The brain is quick to judge. It’s a habit formed for survival, but in leadership, that instinct can limit growth. If you can catch yourself in a moment of judgment and shift into curiosity, the dynamic changes. Ask:

• “What else might be true?”

• “What can I learn from this?”

• “How might this challenge help me grow?”

Curiosity doesn’t weaken leadership. It strengthens it. It makes space for growth, learning, and grace.

Leadership growth doesn’t happen by chance. It happens when we get intentional. The first step is recognizing what’s in the way. The next is choosing to do something about it.