12 Steps for Climbing to the Top of Your Career
Written by Dr. Thomas J. Denham
Take Steps - Personal Strategy
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| 12 Steps for Climbing to the Top of Your Career |
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© 2011, Dr. Thomas J. Denham, Careers In Transition LLC
I have been climbing mountains across this country for more than 30 years. There are plenty of analogies between climbing to the top of mountains and climbing to the top of your career. Last year, I successful reached the top of The Grand Teton in Wyoming. It was the most difficult and dangerous ascent of my career. Here are some lessons from the top.
1. Pick Your Peak Carefully. Be sure where you want to go is in alignment with your skills, values and interests. Do an exhaustive exploring all of your options. Maybe try an easy climb first, and build your confidence before packing for Mt. Everest. Make sure the mountain you choose matches who you are. It should be the one that is the most meaningful to you.
2. Save Up. Climbing and career development are two expensive sports. It is important to have an emergency and/or educational fund, so when it’s time to make the right and deliberate moves, you are fully prepared.
3. Pack Up. Do your homework ahead of time. Bring a “Survival Kit” in case of emergency and pack great gear. We say, “There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing.” Prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Call for help if necessary. Make sure you “Cross Train” very hard to build up your skill sets. Don’t expect anyone to carry your backpack!
4. Hire a Guide. Find someone that is smarter and more experienced that you to help you get to the top. It’s too dangerous do these things alone. Be mentored. Be sure you talk over your strategy and communicate. Plan out the routes you will take.
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