How do you build a career path when the possible paths aren’t clearly defined? You’ll need to find that path unless you plan to stay in one position until retirement. Our paths are like our performance – ultimately up to us.
It is all too easy to get lost in the day-to-day and put off building a solid path for yourself – unless you’re that person that grew up exclusively eyeing the corner office.
Your human resources or people teams may talk paths forward, but they likely don’t have the bandwidth to ensure yours is charted. It is your responsibility to take the lead, showcase your value, and actively seek out opportunities.
Is your life your fault?
Early in my career, I worked with an experienced leader who often repeated a mantra. It was, “Your life is your fault.” At first, I found it quite off-putting.
As time passed, that mantra struck me as deeply true. Picture this. You’re on a playing field. Everyone arrives fully qualified and equally eager to contribute. In this scenario, what differentiates those who are promoted from those that aren’t? The difference is how they navigate their organizations and the industry.
