Do you want to be promoted or be given a better job? Take notice. Find a way to stand out. Look at an obstacle head on and use this opportunity to find a way to help your team or department with a simpler plan that will make things flow easier. Be “that” team player who does something to benefit everyone. Shortcuts are just missing bridges that would help make things smoother for the whole team. Step up and be the “good doer”. It could be as simple as watching the day to day stuff and finding a better way to do it. If you see the same process being used but know it can be tweaked, go to the manager and propose the new change. Sometimes, just small things can help makes stress better too. Next time you hear people talking or complaining about a problem, take a stand and work together to come up with a plan but take the lead. After collecting a few of these in your back pocket, use them as examples of how your leadership abilities have grown and tell your boss that you are ready for more responsibilities. Good luck.