'Tine Zekis | Founder & CEO, Getting Black Women Paid
I help Black women professionals advance their careers, dramatically increase their lifetime earning potential, and build generational wealth. Sign up for my newsletter to learn more!
Sometimes it feels like you’re doing all the “right” things in your career—but nothing is moving. You’re sending applications, showing up at work, maybe even networking, but the opportunities aren’t coming. That holding pattern can feel heavy, frustrating, and even personal.
But here’s the truth: being “stuck” doesn’t mean you’re failing. More often, it means you’re standing at the edge of reinvention. That pause can be the very thing pushing you to expand, reimagine your path, and pursue opportunities that better align with who you’re becoming.
Here are three practical ways to break free when your career feels stalled:
Audit Your Efforts Instead of working harder at the same things, step back and ask: What’s actually working? What isn’t? Sometimes small shifts—like targeting a different industry, refreshing your résumé, or tweaking how you tell your story—can open doors.
Expand Your Toolkit Stagnation can signal it’s time to learn something new. Whether it’s a certification, a workshop, or building a skill you’ve always wanted to strengthen, investing in growth can give you fresh momentum and confidence.
Reframe the Story You’re Telling Yourself Feeling stuck can make you doubt your value. But remember: every season has purpose. This “holding pattern” may be preparing you for a bigger leap than you imagined. Speaking with mentors, coaches, or even journaling can help shift from frustration to forward-thinking.
It’s also worth remembering that career growth isn’t always linear. For many Black professionals, systemic barriers can slow progress in ways that have nothing to do with ability or effort. Naming that truth makes it easier to extend grace to yourself and focus on strategies that help you rise above the stall.
This week, challenge yourself to do one thing differently—apply for a role outside your usual search, attend a networking event with fresh eyes, or commit to a new learning goal. Every small step builds momentum.
Because being “stuck” isn’t the end of your story—it’s often the beginning of the breakthrough.
Best, 'Tine
P.S. Don’t miss this week’s episode of the Getting Black Women Paid Podcast! Julia Rock shares how to recognize when you’re in a holding pattern—and the steps to finally move forward with confidence.
In this article,Black Women See Rising Unemployment Rates As Rest of Labor Market Plateausby Global Grind: Black women face increasing unemployment while the broader labor market stabilizes. The piece explores systemic inequities, economic barriers, and why focused solutions are necessary to close gaps and ensure long-term security for Black women and their communities.
Stressed Black woman looking at laptop screen
While overall unemployment in the U.S. has remained steady in recent months, Black women are facing a troubling reversal. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, they are the only demographic to experience a rise in unemployment this year. Read more about how Black women are noticing a rise in unemployment.
When your career feels stalled, what’s the hardest part—lack of opportunities, unclear next steps, or just feeling burned out? Answer in the poll below and let us know.
When your career feels stuck, what do you struggle with most?
Check out this week’s podcast, Getting Unstuck: How to Move Forward When Your Career Feels Like It’s in a Holding Pattern (with Julia Rock). In this conversation, Julia shares how to break through career stalls and create forward momentum even when opportunities seem scarce.
Listen wherever you get your podcasts, or check it out here.
Prefer video? You can WATCH the podcast on our YouTube channel here.
Claim Yours Tip of the Week
Walk Into Clarity
This week, when you feel stuck, step outside for a 20-minute walk—no phone, no distractions. Notice your thoughts, your body, and your environment. Often, clarity comes when you create space away from the desk. Fresh air has a way of opening fresh perspectives.
What's Going on with 'Tine?
Let’s Talk About Your Income Goals! Did you know you can book a Complimentary 45-minute Income Elevation Discovery Call with 'Tine? Whether you're looking to advance in your career, grow your business, or both, this call is designed to help you gain clarity on your income goals and the best next steps to achieve them. Together, we’ll define your objectives, identify challenges, and explore strategies to help you increase your earnings—without burnout. 🔗 Let’s chat! Grab your free session now:
'Tine Zekis | Founder & CEO, Getting Black Women Paid
I help Black women professionals advance their careers, dramatically increase their lifetime earning potential, and build generational wealth. Sign up for my newsletter to learn more!
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