Why I Don't Wait for Recognition Anymore and What I Do Instead

We’ve all been there — working hard, hoping someone will notice our potential, waiting for that breakthrough moment when our talents are finally recognized. I’ve been there, too, thinking that my commitment and effort would automatically lead to growth and new opportunities. But here’s the truth I’ve come to realize: No one can want my success more than I do. If I stick to the bare minimum, no one will push me forward. It was up to me to take charge of my work and showcase my abilities.

In this post, I’ll share my journey in learning to embrace my potential, the reasons why waiting for recognition can stall your career, and what you can do instead to fast-track your growth. Let’s dive in.

Like many in the HR world, I once believed that dedication alone would earn me recognition. My journey started years ago, working diligently and waiting for someone to tap me on the shoulder and say, “You’re ready for the next level.” But that moment didn’t come until I realized that I needed to show — not wait for — my potential to be seen.

Even when I became an HR department of one, leading the entire HR function for my organization, that wasn't the catalyst for being taken more seriously as a professional.

In hindsight, I realize now that when I started actively seeking out challenges, forming valuable workplace relationships, and consistently delivering beyond expectations, everything shifted.

Here’s why I stopped waiting for recognition and started taking charge.

There’s no one who cares more about my growth and success than I do. In any workplace, people are busy with their own projects and goals. If I wanted growth, I had to be proactive. Taking charge showed others I was serious about my potential, rather than relying on them to notice it themselves.

Now, don't get me wrong. I didn't focus on my career success to impress anyone at work or to "keep up" with them. Quite the opposite, actually. Recognizing that no one cared about my success like I did gave me a targeted direction to work towards and a goal that I could see clearly.

By stepping up, I also discovered a greater sense of ownership over my work. I was no longer waiting for permission; I was creating my own career path. The transformation was empowering, and it taught me to prioritize my growth at every opportunity.

When I was waiting to be recognized, I missed out on something crucial: workplace relationships. Networking and building connections are powerful for career growth. It’s not just about who you know; it’s about who knows what you can achieve. Taking time to connect with colleagues and mentors allowed me to showcase my skills and commitment.

At work, it's so easy to get caught in the trap of being protective over your work to a fault. Being defensive is the opposite approach you should take. Instead, I learned to come alongside others to add value when I could (without overstepping) and get to know them as a professional and as a person. In the end, we all have way more in common than may meet the eye.

By supporting others, sharing insights, and actively engaging, I gained advocates who saw my strengths. Now, instead of just doing my work, I was contributing to the team, which increased my visibility and opened doors to new opportunities — even some that didn't exist at the time!

Waiting for recognition often keeps you in a “safe zone,” where you may be doing good work but not taking risks. I learned that my potential only expanded when I started going beyond the tasks assigned to me. By proactively suggesting improvements, asking for challenging projects, and taking on responsibility, I demonstrated my capability.

If you’re only doing what’s expected, no one questions it, but they also may not see your potential for more. Showing initiative helped me break free from stagnation and made it clear that I was prepared for greater responsibility.

Instead of waiting to be noticed, I now:

These steps have helped me shape a career path where my contributions are clear and my growth is self-driven. It’s a strategy that I’ve found not only leads to recognition but also to a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Waiting for recognition may seem like the safe route, but it can leave you stuck, wondering why your talents aren’t valued. When you take charge of your own career, you show others what you’re capable of, and your potential becomes limitless.

If you’re ready to stop waiting and start growing, I’d love to support you on your journey. This is the work that I do with HR professionals and I'm happy to connect with you to discuss your challenges and a way forward. Book some time with me by clicking here.

Comment below with your biggest takeaway!