Many people I meet are waiting for the next opportunity to come their way. They assume their company will naturally recognize their strengths, acknowledge their contributions, and present opportunities that allow them to grow. While some companies do this, many do not.

Regardless of whether your company prioritizes career development, relying on others to chart your career path puts the responsibility in the wrong hands. It’s also less likely to lead to the kind of work, positions, responsibilities, and impact you desire.

The best person to take action toward achieving your goals is you.

Your Vision for the Future

So, what do you want to be doing in ten years?

This isn’t just a question thrown around during interviews for fun. Seriously – what’s your answer?

What do you love to do? What are you best at? And, to use another cliché but important question: “What makes you want to get out of bed in the morning?”

Take time to reflect on this. Discuss it with loved ones, trusted friends, and colleagues who know you well.

Now, let’s assume you have your answers. Can you visualize your future? If so, congratulations – you now have a compelling answer next time you’re asked about it in an interview. But what comes next?

Next Steps

What is the next step you need to take in your career to move toward that goal? It’s time to turn that vision into action. What do you need to learn or accomplish first?

If you’re looking to advance in your current role, your next step might involve identifying the specific skills and strengths you need to improve and demonstrate in order to earn your next promotion. If you don’t see a clear path forward at your current company, maybe it’s time to research organizations that align better with your career aspirations. If you’re considering a career shift, seek out people in the role you want to transition into. Connect with them to understand what their job is truly like, which of your skills translate well into the role and which you’ll need to develop to make the leap.

Once you have your next steps mapped out, it’s time to talk to your manager, mentors, or other influential people at your company. Discuss your goals, the opportunities you’re seeking, and ask for their input. Ask how you can position yourself to seize those opportunities in your current organization. What can you learn in your current role that will move you closer to the future you envision?

Helping Others Achieve Their Dreams

Now, take this one step further. As a leader, you likely have people reporting to you, looking up to you, or seeking you out for mentorship.

Encourage them to ask themselves the same questions about their future. Remind them that no one will take ownership of their careers better than they will. Then, listen carefully to what they share. Part of your responsibility as a leader is to help put the right opportunities in their path so they can grow and gain experiences that align with their goals.

One of my mentors once told me, “If you make sure your people can grow here, they’ll stay, and they’ll work with energy and enthusiasm. If you don’t, they’ll leave. They’ll find a place where they can get the opportunities they crave.”

Do you have a clear career path for yourself? How did you figure it out? When seeking your next opportunity, whether inside your current company or elsewhere, what do you look for? I’d love to hear your stories.