By Dr. Anthony Kenneson Adams, FIoL, Head of Learning and Knowledge Transfer – Project7 Consultancy

Introduction

So, you want to be a Leader!

Your leadership career is a journey, and just like any journey, it requires a driver. The question is, who is driving your leadership career? Is it you, or are you letting external forces take the wheel? Taking control of your career is essential for your personal and professional growth. In this article, I will explore the importance of taking control and offer some insights from my 45 years in the world of work that may help you steer your career in the right direction.

The Passenger vs. the Driver

Imagine your career as a car. Imagine you have just purchased your dream vehicle, the perfect size the perfect color, everything you have ever wanted, then you hand the keys to a stranger and get comfortable in the driving seat!  Bizarre right? Yet the majority of people do just this when considering their leadership journey.   When you’re the passenger, you’re simply along for the ride. You might have some input on the destination, but you have no control over the route, speed, or stops along the way. In this scenario, your career is at the mercy of others—your boss, colleagues, or the job market. You’re abdicating your potential into the hands of others, others who do not care as much as you do about your destination or success.

You deserve to be the driver of your career, to be in command. You decide where you want to go, how fast you want to get there, and the route you’ll take. Being the driver means taking responsibility for your career choices, setting goals, and making decisions that align with your aspirations. It’s a proactive and empowering approach that can lead to greater satisfaction and success, and what’s more, it’s fun!

Why You Should Be the Driver

Here are a few reasons why you need to settle into the driver’s seat.

1. Personal Fulfilment: Taking the driver’s seat allows you to pursue work that aligns with your passions and values. When I first joined the RAF…….
2. **Professional Growth**: Being proactive in your career can lead to opportunities for growth and advancement. You can seek out new challenges, acquire new skills, and position yourself for promotions or career changes. Having completed my HNC I was able to
3. **Adaptability**: In today’s fast-paced world, careers are constantly evolving. When you’re the driver, you can adapt to changes in your industry, embrace new technologies, and stay ahead of the curve. When I left the RAF …… paper
4. **Financial Independence**: Taking control of your career can lead to better financial outcomes. You can negotiate for higher salaries, seek out more lucrative opportunities, and plan for your financial future with confidence.

How to Be the Driver

1. **Set Clear Goals**: Define your career objectives. Where do you want to be in one year, five years, or ten years? Having clear goals gives you a roadmap to follow. What and when?
2. **Continuous Learning**: Invest in your skills and knowledge. Take courses, attend workshops, and stay informed about industry trends. The more you learn, the more valuable you become. How..
3. **Networking**: Build a strong professional network. Connect with colleagues, mentors, and industry peers. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable guidance.
4. **Self-Advocacy**: Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. Ask for promotions, raises, or challenging assignments when you believe you’ve earned them. Speak up about your career aspirations.
5. **Embrace Change**: Be open to change and innovation. Don’t get stuck in a comfort zone. Be willing to pivot when necessary to stay relevant in your field.
6. **Work-Life Balance**: Remember that being the driver of your career doesn’t mean working yourself into burnout. Maintain a healthy work-life balance to ensure long-term success and well-being.

Conclusion

Your career is a journey, and it’s up to you to decide who is driving the car. By taking control and becoming the driver of your career, you empower yourself to make choices that lead to personal fulfillment, professional growth, and financial independence. Don’t leave your career to chance or the whims of others. Set clear goals, invest in yourself, and be proactive in pursuing the career you desire. Remember, your career is in your hands, so take the wheel and steer it in the direction of your dreams.