Stuck but Still Standing: When Loyalty Feels Like a Career Trap

Fifteen years. That’s how long I’ve given to my current employer. I’ve grown with the firm, worked late nights, hit targets, supported my team, and six years ago, I earned a promotion to supervisor. On paper, I’ve progressed.

But here I am, nearly halfway through my career, realising that there’s little chance I’ll ever become a manager. Why? Because, apparently, the way I “react” to situations is holding me back. It’s vague. It’s subjective. And honestly, it feels like an excuse.

The truth is, I don’t think the director likes me. And that personal bias seems to matter more than my years of performance, loyalty, and growth. It’s a gut punch. Because no matter how hard you work, how much you care, or how much you improve, when someone senior just doesn’t want to see you succeed — you’re stuck.

And that’s exactly how I feel: stuck. Trapped in a role that no longer grows with me, in a workplace that praises my work ethic but stalls my progress.

I know I need to look elsewhere, but that brings its own weight. Guilt. Anxiety. Doubt. Will another employer see my value? Will I just face the same thing again?

If you’re reading this and you feel the same way — know this:

• You’re not alone.

• Loyalty isn’t a weakness, but staying in the wrong place for too long can be.

• It’s okay to want more. It’s okay to leave.

This is a turning point for me. Not a breakdown, but a breakthrough. I’m starting to explore new roles — not because I’m disloyal, but because I deserve a future where I can keep growing.

If you’re in the same boat, maybe it’s time to ask: What would happen if I bet on myself instead of waiting for someone else to notice me?