Navigating a Stagnant System: Practical Strategies to Stay Resilient and Effective
In a constantly evolving world, being stuck in a system that refuses to change can feel disheartening. Whether it’s a hospital, a healthcare organization, or even a broader industry, navigating stagnation can challenge your patience, values, and sense of purpose. Yet, staying resilient and effective in such environments is not only possible—it can also be an opportunity for growth and impact.
Here are 10 practical strategies to help healthcare professionals thrive even when the system doesn’t seem to budge.
Focus on What You Can Control
When the more extensive system feels immovable, focus on the things within your control. Identify areas where you can make a difference—through your team, specific projects, or daily tasks. Channeling your energy into these spaces can create a meaningful impact, even if it’s incremental. Celebrate small wins along the way; they are the stepping stones of progress. Understanding your circle of control can allow you to understand your real choices.
Shift Your Perspective
A shift in mindset can make all the difference. Instead of viewing the system as an insurmountable obstacle, consider it a challenge that invites creativity and strategic thinking. Practice acceptance—not as a resignation but as a way to conserve your energy for what truly matters. Reframing the situation can help you see opportunities where you once saw only roadblocks. Sometimes, we have biases that can stunt our ability to reframe. Identify them, and then reframe them with a positive perspective.
Build Emotional Resilience
Stagnant systems can be draining, so it’s vital to cultivate emotional resilience. Some ways to build emotional resilience are investing in activities that recharge your emotional batteries—mindfulness, exercise, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy. Equally important is setting boundaries to protect your mental health. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. If you want to build up emotional resilience, and greater self-awareness into what thoughts and feelings you are experiencing. You can recognize and regulate your emotions to be responsive rather than reactive. If you find yourself having an intense response, whether at work or in your daily life, follow these steps for when you are feeling triggered.
Learn more about building resilience in our blog.
Cultivating Patience for Successful Transformation
Systemic change often takes time, and patience becomes a valuable asset. Change management takes time from identifying issues — whether in organizations or personal lives — to proposing solutions, implementation like education or employee training, and lastly, reinforcement and sustainment which could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few years (depending on systems and processes and cultural workplace changes). Align yourself with like-minded colleagues or allies who share your vision. Together, you can create a supportive network that bolsters your persistence. Keep an eye on opportunities for gradual change—sometimes the seeds you plant today bear fruit tomorrow.
Advocate for Change Strategically
Advocating for change in a resistant system requires precision. Choose your battles wisely, focusing on issues that have the highest chance of gaining traction.
How to know when to advocate for change?
When considering advocating for change, consider organizational impact and issues, does this impact many people or departments? What financial or time commitment is needed for this change to happen? When presenting your case, combine data-driven insights with compelling human stories to create a more persuasive argument. Remember, the way you communicate can be as impactful as the message itself.
For Example, A patient was seen without the appropriate equipment needed for therapy. The nurse talked with therapy and their concern was disregarded and she decided to go to an administrator to discuss her concerns about the standard protocol for equipment use. The administrator asked her what did she think the patient needed. She shared her thoughts, and the administrator thanked her and asked therapy about the lack of equipment for this patient The therapist said she was unaware of the need and went to evaluate the patient. The nurse then followed up and asked if there was a better process to ensure good equipment use, and the therapist and nurse started a new process and checked in to ensure patients had the correct equipment.
Essentially, a standard policy and procedure to ensure compliance, optimal patient care, and consistent and safe execution of patient care across practitioners.
Adapt and Innovate
Stagnant systems are often rigid, but within their constraints lie opportunities for adaptability. Learn to navigate the system’s rules and find creative ways to work within them. Experiment with small, innovative projects or pilot programs that can serve as proof of concept for alternative approaches. Adaptability is not just a survival skill—it’s a path to transformation.
Invest in Your Professional Development
If the system isn’t evolving, that doesn’t mean you can’t. Use this time to sharpen your skills, expand your knowledge, and prepare for future opportunities. Attend workshops, read extensively, or engage in discussions to broaden your perspective. Personal and professional growth not only enhances your capabilities but also positions you as a leader ready for change.
Some books and podcasts we recommend:
Stay Anchored in Your Values
Amidst stagnation, reconnecting with your core values is essential. Remind yourself of your deeper purpose and how your work contributes to it, even if progress feels slow. By aligning your actions with your core values, you can inspire others around you and model the change you wish to see. To identify your core values think about those difficult, challenging, and victorious times in your life and identify what value was supported or violated. This can be a good starting point.
Here’s an exercise to help you determine your core values.
Setting Boundaries to Protect Your Wellbeing
Sometimes, staying in a system that resists change comes at too great a cost—whether to your well-being or your values. If the price of staying outweighs the potential impact, it may be time to explore other opportunities. Leaving a stagnant environment doesn’t mean giving up; it can mean choosing a new path and being intentional with your time and energy.
Having healthy boundaries is critical in building resiliency. Identify what is OK and not OK for you. By clearly identifying your boundaries and finding respectful ways of clearly communicating them you can make choices about how you want to show up.
Develop a Supportive Network
You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Seek out mentors, coaches, or colleagues who can offer guidance and encouragement. Surround yourself with peers who understand your challenges, and together, you can create a network of mutual support. Here are several ways to build your network in the healthcare industry.
Finding Growth Amid Stagnation
While being part of a system that resists change can be frustrating, it also presents opportunities for growth, adaptability, and leadership. By focusing on what you can control, cultivating resilience, and staying anchored in your values, you can not only tolerate the system but also make a meaningful impact within it.
Remember, change—no matter how small—starts with you. By navigating these challenges with creativity and determination, you set the stage for future transformation, both for yourself and the system around you.
About SMM Coaching & Consulting
At SMM Coaching and Consulting, we offer healthcare leadership coaching for professionals and organizations. If you or your organization needs support in empowering leaders, and elevating leadership skills in resiliency, emotional intelligence, and strategic alignment, schedule your FREE consultation.
