Momentum Killers: Identifying and Eliminating Roadblocks

February 26, 2025

SEB Marketing Team

Progress fuels business improvement. Teams hit milestones and achieve goals naturally when they operate smoothly. However, momentum is delicate. Even the most capable teams face large obstacles that slow progress, dampen motivation, and cause projects to stall. These obstacles, known as momentum killers, might be somewhat subtle or obvious, but their effect is always the same: they impede efficiency, diminish morale, and ultimately lessen productivity. To guarantee continued team engagement along with the promise of lasting success, business leaders, managers, as well as HR professionals need to understand each of these roadblocks as well as implement several strategies to remove them. Here are some typical momentum killers and how to eliminate them.

Lack of Clear Communication

A lack of clear and open communication is one of the most significant momentum killers. When expectations are unclear, roles are undefined, or updates are inconsistent, confusion reigns. Team members waste time seeking clarification or, worse, working under incorrect assumptions, leading to rework and frustration.

How to Fix It:

• Establish Transparent Communication Channels: Use structured team meetings, collaborative tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams, and clear documentation in project management platforms to ensure everyone is on the same page.

• Encourage Open Dialogue: Foster an open-door policy where team members feel comfortable asking questions or sharing concerns.

Insufficient Resources or Tools

Even the most skilled teams can only go so far without the right tools and resources. Outdated technology, inefficient processes, or understaffing can slow down productivity and create unnecessary roadblocks.

How to Fix It:

• Conduct Regular Assessments: Identify gaps in resources. Ensure employees have the necessary software, hardware, and training.

• Invest in the Right Tools: Whether it’s project management software, automation solutions, or additional team members, investing in the right tools can significantly improve workflow and eliminate bottlenecks.

Unrealistic Deadlines and Expectations

Ambition is essential in business, but when deadlines are set without considering actual workload and feasibility, they create stress and reduce quality. Rushed work often leads to errors, burnout, and missed opportunities for innovation.

How to Fix It:

• Set Realistic Timelines: Consult with team members about workload capacity and use data-driven approaches to set deadlines.
• Adopt Flexible Methodologies: Use project management methodologies like Agile or Scrum to break down projects into manageable phases, allowing for flexibility and adjustments as needed.

Poor Team Dynamics and Workplace Conflict

A team’s chemistry directly affects productivity. If employees don’t trust one another, struggle with collaboration, or experience frequent conflicts, progress will be slow. Workplace tension creates distractions and prevents teams from focusing on the bigger picture.

How to Fix It:

• Foster a Positive Team Culture: Encourage team-building activities, regular feedback, and open discussions about challenges.
• Address Conflicts Proactively: Create a psychologically safe environment where team members feel heard and respected. Leaders should model strong collaboration and encourage mutual support.

Micromanagement and Lack of Autonomy

Nothing stifles creativity and progress more than micromanagement. When employees feel like they are being watched too closely, they may hesitate to take initiative, leading to delays and reduced engagement. On the other hand, if teams lack any guidance, productivity can also suffer due to confusion.

How to Fix It:

• Empower Employees: Give team members ownership over their tasks and trust them to execute their responsibilities.
• Provide Clear Objectives: Set clear goals and check-in points without micromanaging every detail. Leaders should be available for support without controlling every step.

Resistance to Change and Ineffective Processes

Inefficiencies often persist because “this is the way we’ve always done it.” Sticking to outdated methods when better solutions exist can slow teams down and create unnecessary frustration.

How to Fix It:

• Encourage Continuous Improvement: Regularly evaluate workflows to identify inefficiencies and be open to adopting new methodologies or technologies that streamline processes.
• Reward Innovative Thinking: Encourage employees to suggest improvements and reward innovative thinking.

Momentum killers don’t have to be permanent. By identifying and addressing these roadblocks, business leaders can create an environment where teams thrive, innovation flourishes, and progress remains steady. The key is to remain proactive—regularly assessing team dynamics, workflow efficiency, and leadership strategies to ensure momentum stays strong. When teams feel supported, equipped, and empowered, they can operate at their full potential, achieving both short-term wins and long-term success.