How to Stop Playing Small in Your Career

There’s nothing wrong with playing small. For some people, it’s a deliberate choice, a way of working that feels comfortable, secure, and aligned with their priorities. Not everyone wants to climb the ladder or push for the next promotion, and that’s perfectly valid.

There is a difference, however, between choosing to play small and feeling stuck there. Many business support professionals tell us they’ve reached a point where they realised they were holding back, not because they lacked ambition, but because they’d grown so used to operating quietly that stepping forward felt unnatural.

This blog has been shaped by real conversations with people across the profession. Some who have already navigated this moment and others who are still working through it. Their experiences are different, but the theme is often the same: a sense of wanting to do more, contribute differently, or feel seen for the value they already bring.

Playing small can become a habit. You do your job well, keep things running smoothly, and stay behind the scenes because that’s where you’ve always been. Over time, this can limit your confidence and sense of progress. If you find yourself wondering whether there’s more you could be doing, or feel a little invisible at work, it might be time to stretch yourself, even slightly.

The advice we often hear from experienced assistants is to start small. Confidence rarely arrives in one moment; it builds through action. Say yes to presenting in a meeting, take ownership of a project, or share your ideas with your executive instead of waiting to be asked. These moments of visibility are often where new opportunities begin.

If the idea of putting yourself forward feels uncomfortable, try reframing it. You’re not drawing attention to yourself. Instead, you’re helping the business run better by using your initiative. You’re offering value, not seeking validation. It also helps to reflect on what you want to be known for. What qualities do people associate with you? What impression do you leave behind after a meeting or interaction? The most successful assistants we meet are intentional about how they show up. They understand that consistency, reliability, and composure are just as much a part of their personal brand as ambition or confidence.

Documenting your wins can also make a real difference. It’s easy to forget the everyday achievements that demonstrate your impact. Keeping a simple record of what’s gone well, such as a project you led, feedback from your executive, or a moment you handled under pressure helps you see your progress clearly and gives you practical examples to draw on when the next opportunity arises.

Ultimately, there’s no single definition of success. You might be happy where you are, and that’s absolutely fine, but if you’re feeling stuck or ready for more, taking one small step forward can be the start of something bigger. You don’t have to change overnight; you just need to be open to seeing what you’re capable of.