The Habits That Hold Capable People Back: Payal Nanjiani On Her Latest Book Make It To The Top

Why do capable professionals often find themselves stuck at a certain level in their careers? Renowned leadership coach Payal Nanjiani, drawing on her 23 years of experience coaching senior leaders and CEOs, suggests the answer might be found in habits that are so ingrained they go unnoticed. In her latest book, "Make It To The Top," Nanjiani explores how the qualities that lead to success in one role can hinder progress in the next.

We spoke with her about promotions, visibility and the adjustments that can lead to growth for both individuals and organizations.

Nanjiani notes that many hard-working individuals overlook the behaviors that shape how they perform their tasks. While someone may consistently deliver results, they might shy away from voicing differing opinions. Conversely, a problem-solver who handles every issue personally may leave no space for team growth. These behaviors, while helpful in earlier stages of one's career, can become limiting as responsibilities expand and the "game" changes.

Can a person's greatest strength become a barrier to advancement? Absolutely, Nanjiani explains. For instance, someone known for their meticulousness may excel in building trust and improving work quality. However, if this individual believes they must personally review every detail, they may struggle with delegation or decision-making at the speed required in a more senior role.

The solution isn't to abandon the strength but to recognize when it's beneficial and when a different approach is needed. True growth comes from the ability to choose our responses rather than merely defaulting to the same behavior.

The book challenges the notion that promotions and raises are solely about asking for them. Instead, Nanjiani emphasizes the importance of developing broader capabilities. To prepare for a more expansive role, professionals should focus on mentoring others, handling difficult conversations, and understanding the impact of their work.

Demonstrating these skills and seeking constructive feedback can significantly enhance one's chances of being considered for a promotion. While there's no guaranteed formula for advancement, taking ownership of readiness can be a crucial step.

If you're feeling frustrated with a particular work situation—like being overlooked in meetings or shouldering all responsibilities—Nanjiani suggests identifying this behavior and asking yourself how you typically respond. Then, seek feedback from someone you trust. Based on their observations, commit to trying a different approach the next time the situation arises. By becoming more aware of our habits and adjusting them, we pave the way for meaningful change.

Ultimately, personal growth has far-reaching effects on organizational success. A leader's behavior sets the tone for the entire team. For example, difficulties with delegation can create bottlenecks and prevent capable team members from developing. When leaders change, they inspire their teams to contribute more. Nanjiani connects personal development with organizational growth, highlighting that our thoughts and behaviors shape the environment within which others work. By enhancing these aspects, we can unlock new possibilities for everyone around us.