When it comes to our careers, there are two primary approaches.
Offense and defense.
Some of us are better at playing one side of the game, others are better at the other.
The challenge is that most people don’t realize they are playing in one mode.
They aren’t aware of the game going on around them.
They don’t see the players.
Recognize when to work as a team.
When to move the ball forward.
When to pass the ball.
And when to take a shot.
My Perspective
Those who play offense are proactively creating and shaping their careers every day.
Those who play defense are reacting to the assignment, title, or opportunity.
Both approaches can lead to successful careers.
Yet, in my opinion, playing your career in offense is the way to go.
I’ve watched far too many people I’ve coached over the years get run over in defense mode.
They are following a career path others want for them vs. what they want for themselves.
They tend to be the ones who are perpetually busy.
Following in a reactive mode to calendar events, due dates, and responsibilities.
We work together to shift from defense to offense.
Starting with calendars and due dates.
Understanding where priorities need to be placed.
Finding a little space to start to explore and create.
Moving from filling every minute with doing to spending a bit of time thinking.
Careers on offense are focused on the short & long term.
Individuals know what they want and what their unique strengths are.
They have a personal brand and nurture their connections.
Careers on offense are MeEO careers – taking charge.
Your Turn
Do you feel like your career today is on offense or defense?
Did you spend the last week, month, year in a proactive or a reactive mode?
What small step could you take today to be a bit more proactive?