No matter how hard you try to advance, you will encounter obstacles at every turn. Instead of working to meet an impossible deadline or promote an unpopular agenda, make a strategic retreat. People will be more likely to give you a chance when you're not constantly exerting pressure on them. If you have a chance to take an advanced course, grab it. Studying with a respected expert will show you how to deal with difficult situations like these. Brute force will only take you so far.