APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady answers your careers questions.
Here, Karren gives her expert advice to a reader who was shocked to find a friend and colleague had applied for the same role as her.
Q) I am in my late-40s and feel a bit stuck in my career.
I’ve worked at my current company for the last 10 years in a middle-management role.
Two years ago, I was offered a similar position at a different company (same job title and only slightly higher salary), but turned it down, as my employer offered me a £2,000 pay rise to stay.
However, since then, there have been no career progression opportunities or further pay rises, and I feel generally demotivated – plus, I can’t stop thinking I made the wrong choice two years ago!
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How I can find my work mojo again?
Rebecca
A) It’s completely natural to look back and wonder if you made the right call, especially when things feel a bit flat right now – but try not to get stuck in that loop.
Every decision makes sense in the moment, and what matters now is figuring out what you need to feel motivated again.
Sometimes, feeling “stuck” doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong, it just means you’ve outgrown what once felt comfortable.
After 10 years in the same place, it’s normal to crave something new, whether that’s a fresh challenge or a change of environment.
Have an honest chat with your manager about which areas you want to grow in, or what might reignite your interest.
If that doesn’t lead anywhere, use this time to quietly explore your options, update your CV, reconnect with contacts and look into training that excites you.
Even taking those small but positive steps can help you feel more in control and energised about your career.
You certainly haven’t missed your chance.
You’ve got decades of experience behind you – use them as your launch pad, not your anchor.
- Got a careers question for Karren? Email bossingit@fabulousmag.co.uk.
