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✨ Stack Your Wins: How to Use Momentum to Navigate a Stuck Career Phase

Published by Respondr 3 min read
Tags
Self Improvement Career Planning Health & Wellbeing Resilience

Most paramedics will hit a stuck phase at some point in their career.

It might look like this: You’re still showing up. Still doing the job. But something’s missing, motivation, energy, direction. It feels like you're standing still, and no matter what you try, the needle doesn’t move.

Here’s the truth: Feeling stuck isn’t a sign of failure, it’s usually a sign of stalled movement. And the fastest way to get unstuck isn’t to overhaul your life, it’s to create momentum through small, intentional actions.


🔄 Stuck Doesn’t Mean Stagnant, It Means Paused

We often think of progress as big steps: a promotion, a course, a new role. But in reality, momentum is built from small wins that compound over time.

These wins remind you:

  • You still have agency

  • You’re still growing

  • You don’t have to feel 100% clear to take action

And once you get moving, confidence follows.


✅ Try This 3-Step “Small Win Stack” Process

This isn’t about forcing a major decision. It’s about reconnecting with your ability to act, even in a low-energy season.

🔹 Step 1: Identify One Frustration

Ask yourself: What’s one part of my job or career that’s been bothering me lately?
It might be a lack of direction, not enough learning, limited recognition, or just a sense that something needs to change.

Keep it simple. One frustration = one focus.


🔹 Step 2: Choose One Small Action

Now choose a low-pressure, low-risk action that brings insight, energy, or progress.
Examples:

  • Reach out to a mentor for a 15-minute chat

  • Revisit your resume or CPD record

  • Block time for reflection

  • Read an article about a skill or role that interests you

  • Say “no” to something that drains your energy

You’re not solving the whole problem ... you’re making a move.


🔹 Step 3: Reflect on What It Taught You

After you act, pause and write down:

  • 🧠 What did I learn?

  • 🔁 How did it make me feel?

  • ➡️ What might I try next?

Each reflection deepens the learning and reinforces the idea that you’re in motion again.


🧠 Final Thought: Stack Wins, Not Pressure

You don’t need a full plan to move forward .... you need movement.

A single win feels good. But stack a few together, and suddenly you’ve built momentum, belief, and direction.

This week, don’t wait to feel ready. Just take one action. Then another. Then another. And let those steps bring your confidence, and your career, back into motion.

Respondr are here to support and guide you, allow you to understand your options, connect you with the right support and resources. Click on the link below to join the Respondr Network. 

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