Are We There Yet?

I don’t mountain climb, but I could see where it’s exciting for those who do. After strenuous labor, using technical skill, they reach the summit for a beautiful view and a grand sense of accomplishment.

Yet for all the comparisons that people sometimes make between a career and “climbing a mountain” (or ladder), there’s a major difference. When you reach the pinnacle of the mountain, you know you’ve reached the top. For your career, you may not realize you were at the top until after you descend — or fall.

The career move here? Like a mountain climber, know your objective. Plan the path. Once in a while check your bearings and make sure your altimeter is in good working order. Don’t reach the summit and fail to even realize you’re there and miss the view.