Have you ever been driving in the middle lane on a three-lane highway? You are pinned in with a car in front, a car to the right and another on your left in your blind spot. You’re muttering under your breath, “Why doesn’t that stupid car move up or drop back so I can pass?” Nevertheless, no, he muddles along. Moreover, so must you. The time ticks away faster each time you look at your watch. You pace with your foot on the brake feeling trapped. Feeling stuck!

Does this sound familiar? Do you feel stuck in your job too?

Is there a blind spot keeping you from reaching your career dream or the next promotion? If you hear another, “You’re doing a great job, keep up the good work” do you think you’ll scream?

Maybe you have even trained the person who is getting the promotion. The promotion that you deserve!

Here are three blind spots that commonly appear when your head is bumping against the glass ceiling:

1. Not the right or enough education. Does walking into a room of professionals (whom you THINK have a degree) make you feel inadequate? Feeling inadequate occur when you give your power away. If this is your blind spot, check out the many different ways you can get a degree. Many schools offer online courses and some offer credit for life experience.

2. Unclear or foggy goals. Do you chase after every idea that comes your way? The most beautiful rainbows come after a torrential rain, see the beauty in your own ideas, or continue to chase after the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. If this is your blind spot, resolve today to spend some time in self reflection deciding and focusing on what you really want.

3. Unexceptional listening skills. Are you structuring your answers while the person is talking to you or finishing their sentences for them? This behavior devalues you and the other person. If this is your blind spot begin to make a conscious effort to listen to the complete statement of the other person, and then pause to formulate your answer. This adds value for both of you.

Some blind spots hold you back from being the person you know you can be. Others are little annoyances that get in the way. You get to choose to have your eyes “wide open” and see opportunities in places you never thought to look.

Keep this paper with you for the next three days to remind you to look for blind spots. As you notice blind spots, write them down. Reflect on them and pay attention to the difference they make in your life.