Don't quit!
It is very natural that after an initial enthusiastic rush, if you have not quite succeeded in getting THERE, you will feel deflated, discouraged and self-doubting. Do NOT give in to that overwhelming voice that tells you 'it will never happen'. "The goal... is to stay out of what I have always referred to as the 'vortex of defeat' in which you let yourself spiral into inertia and despair." - Jack Welch (Winning, HarperCollins, 2005)
If you are one of the lucky ones, you may experience success quickly. However, do not take that for granted. For most, this process may be long and arduous. Keep in mind that general career management skills will always be helpful - whether it is to move yourself upwards where you are now or to obtain a new job. Do not give up - every barrier or obstacle will bring you a new lesson on how better to manage your career transition.
What to do? Make HERE better for you before you make it to THERE. For example, if you do not like your job now because you are not getting the managerial experience you think you should, speak with your boss. Put together a proposal on areas you can exercise your managerial muscles that may be helpful to your boss... Take on some volunteer opportunities within your company or out of the office that can increase your exposure to other potential bosses...
The last thing you want to do is to show potential employers that you are frustrated with the situation you are in now or that you cannot manage things well. Potential employers should feel that you are a creative problem solver, a positive energy to have around and someone who can handle tough challenges! You never know when you will come across them and you DO NOT want to turn them off by an off-hand comment about your present job situation or a low energy meeting.
