The last several weeks I’ve been doing a research project, talking to senior execs about what their next role might look like, how they got roles in the past, and what is getting in the way right now.
I’ve had scores of interactions.
It’s quickly become clear that only one characteristic separates those who have moved up quickly from those who continue to stagnate.
That characteristic has nothing to do with their role or their technical expertise.
Instead, it’s their view of the world.
Struggling job seekers see the world as outside of them and are quick to create excuses. They wait for the right time, for the right recruiter to call, for the right role to show up. (And then they complain about the job they get.)
Successful job seekers see that they can create their next role.
An SVP I talked to said it best.
“I am constantly working on my own psychology, because it determines everything.”
You can actively create your experience. Or you can react to whatever shows up.
You can focus on what you really want. Or you can focus only what you think you can have (or deserve).
Which one will you decide?