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Navigating your internal career path: Are you ready to make a choice?

As we approach year-end #performance reviews, many of us find ourselves in the familiar swirl of self-reflection and goal-setting.


It’s that time when you ponder the big questions: Am I in the right role? Is it time for a change? Should I pursue people management or deepen my expertise? 🤔


This is where a simple decision-making tool can come in handy. I recently put together a basic decision tree to help navigate these #career crossroads. While it’s by no means exhaustive, it can guide you through some critical questions about your strengths, drives, and preferences.


Hopefully, it serves as a good starting point for some reflection, ultimately leading you to one of three paths: People Management, Expert Path, or a Parallel Change.


So, what does each path mean?


  • 🤝 People Management Path: This is for the natural leaders among us—the ones who thrive on mentoring others, resolving conflicts, and driving #team success. If you find joy in guiding others and influencing organizational #strategy, this path could be the right one for you.

  • 🔍Expert Path: If you’re more of a lone wolf who loves diving deep into complex problems and becoming a subject matter expert, this route is more likely to keep you happy and engaged in your role. You’ll be tackling technical challenges and innovating in your field.

  • 🚶‍➡️ Parallel Change: And what if you don’t quite fit into the first two categories? A parallel (lateral) change allows you to transition into a different discipline at a similar level, harnessing your existing skills in new ways. It’s a fresh start that could satisfy your natural curiosity and thirst for knowledge.


Why is this decision so crucial?


Research shows that nearly 70% of employees feel disengaged in their current roles, often leading to burnout and dissatisfaction. Making the right choice about your career path can significantly improve your job satisfaction and productivity. Think about it—would you rather wake up excited to lead a team or dive into a new technical challenge?


👉 Here’s how to approach your decision:


  1. Reflect: Take a moment to think about what truly energizes you. Is it leading others or mastering new skills?

  2. Evaluate: Use the decision tree as a starting point to guide your thought process. Ask yourself the Yes/No questions to clarify your path.

  3. Consult: Don’t hesitate to talk to mentors or colleagues. They can provide valuable insights and perspectives you might not have considered.

  4. Plan: Set actionable goals based on your chosen path. Whether that means seeking leadership training or enrolling in specialized courses, every little step counts.


As you consider your career path, embrace the journey of self-discovery and be open to exploring new opportunities. Taking ownership of your career means being proactive and curious about where different paths might lead you.




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