Managing career plateaus for mid‐career professionals: A process‐driven practice intervention using life‐design counseling

Abstract This qualitative study explores the impact of life‐design counseling (LDC) on mid‐career professionals facing career plateauing. Seven mid‐career professionals underwent counselling sessions focused on overcoming barriers, evaluating career beliefs, and exploring options. Thematic analysis delves into their experiences, attitudes, and unresolved mid‐career dilemmas. Results indicate a shift from problem‐focused to solution‐based thinking. A two‐wave longitudinal study spanning 4 years confirms counseling's effectiveness in assisting individuals in making crucial career decisions, guiding positive career redirection amidst mid‐career plateauing. Our study specifically explored and analyzed the practical application of LDC intervention in the real‐world counseling scenario for overcoming career plateauing.