HUMAN RELATIONS 3.4

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Plateau Periods

Many aspects of life constantly change. Your education, career, and relationships, for example, change as time goes by. The change is usually positive, but there are times when nothing seems to happen. These times are called plateau periods. The word plateau comes from geology and describes a steep mountain with a flat or level top. Thus, a plateau period can be defined as a time when there’s little growth or development (leveling-off) in certain life processes.

Marsha was frustrated because she hadn’t been promoted for six months. She didn’t realize that as she climbed the career ladder it would take longer to move up. Although she worked hard and advanced quickly when she first started, promotion would come more slowly at higher levels. There’s nothing wrong with Marsha or her current job. Her situation has changed and she must learn to be patient.

Paul faces a different problem in his relationship with Nicole. They have settled into the “comfortable” stage. The excitement of a new relationship has passed, and they’re learning to share more of their lives with one another. Later in this study unit, we’ll discuss how they might move on to the next stage of their relationship.

Harriet faces a problem almost every student has experienced. She has worked hard and has come close to her goal. Now she’s facing what runners call “the wall,” a loss of mental energy as they near the end of the race. Harriet has the ability to finish the course and succeed. What she must do is find ways to regain the enthusiasm and determination that inspired her in the first place.

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How to Deal with Plateau Periods

Be Patient

Build Other Interests

Change Your Approach

Use Positive Self Talk

Key Points

A plateau periods is a time when there's little or no growth in your life

Strategies for whit this includes patience, building other interests, changing your approach, and using positive self talk