Does your career feel like it’s at a standstill? Maybe there are plenty of projects to work on, but as far as moving up the career ladder, you feel stuck. It’s what I like to call the “waiting room” effect. But what does that mean?

Have you ever signed in at the doctor’s office and then waited (and waited some more) to be seen? It can feel like an eternity, so you flip through magazines or check your phone. Finally, your name is called. That feeling might also be something you experience at the midcareer stage of your life.

You’re eager to advance professionally, but that next step—the director, vice president, or CEO position— is filled, and he or she isn’t moving out any time soon. So, you look at other organizations and job opportunities, but maybe you only see lateral moves with similar titles and salaries. Do you take a new job because it’s at a different organization, or do you wait it out in your current role? Either way, that dilemma can feel like a career waiting room.

If you feel stuck, you can still look for options to progress your career. Here are a few questions to consider that might just put your career back on track:

Where is my focus? When you focus on what’s wrong with your job, you lose sight of what’s right. Maybe you are right where you’re supposed to be. Use this waiting-room period to see if getting a credential or certificate is a good fit for your career path.

When you focus on what’s wrong with your career, you lose sight of what’s right. Maybe you are right where you’re supposed to be. Use this waiting-room period to see if getting a credential or certificate is a good fit for your career path.

Do I need a mentor? Having an outside perspective can change your professional viewpoint. There are both formal and informal ways to find a mentor. You also might be able to connect with someone in a state society or networking group you’re involved with already.

Can I lead or volunteer outside my organization? There might be other places beyond your job where you can exhibit leadership skills. Look for leadership development programs in your town or state and be on the lookout for opportunities to volunteer. Maybe there is a local nonprofit or chamber of commerce that needs help. Or perhaps there’s a charity that you can give time to after work. Serving is a great way to give back while growing your professional network and building new skills. 

What makes me happy? Too many people give up happiness for a job. A bit of soul-searching may help you to pivot in a career. Who you are and what you do go hand in hand, so stay away from toxic work cultures or personalities. At the same time, find time to insert happiness into your life when you’re not working. Listen to a positive podcast or comedian, or read a book that makes you happy.

Believe it or not, the career waiting room isn’t a permanent place. It’s usually a temporary station that comes with most careers. It may feel counterintuitive, but sitting and waiting can give employees a chance to polish professional and leadership skills.

And when you think your circumstances are so challenging that there’s no way forward or way out, think again. Even though you are tempted to run or give up when life gets hard, maybe you are planted right where you need to be.