Have a goal. Know where you want to end up. Knowing where you want to end up is a lot easier than figuring out how to start and how to get there. You will figure out how to get there. Do not chart your career. Trust me you do not want to chart your career.
This quote emphasizes the importance of setting clear, defined goals as the foundation for success and personal fulfillment. Having a specific destination in mind provides direction and purpose, making the journey more straightforward because the focus remains on the endpoint rather than every unpredictable step along the way. It suggests that visualization of the final goal can simplify decision-making, eliminate unnecessary detours, and help maintain motivation during challenging times. Interestingly, the quote advises against rigidly 'chalking out' every detail of your career or life's pathway from the start. Instead, it advocates for a flexible approach, trusting that through effort, experience, and adaptability, you will find the best route to reach your desired destination. This perspective is particularly empowering because it reduces the anxiety associated with perfectionism and overplanning; life and careers are often non-linear, filled with unexpected opportunities and obstacles. Trusting in your ability to adapt and find your way aligns with growth mindset principles and encourages resilience. Moreover, this approach fosters a sense of liberation β letting go of the need to control every detail allows for more organic development and personal growth. Overall, the message champions a balance between clarity of purpose and openness to change, which can lead to more authentic and fulfilling journeys.
---Gary Cohn---