Navigating Career Paths: No Plan, No Problem?

When I was younger, I had a clear vision of my future career. I aspired to spend my life in a university setting, driven by a deep-seated love for academics and the camaraderie with my peers. Each new position I took brought me closer to that goal. I never prioritized raises; instead, I focused on advancing my academic pursuits. While I had a goal, it’s arguable whether having a specific plan was the best approach, given the unforeseen twists and turns of life.

Consider my journey. After 25 years, I retired from academia. For many, this might seem like a well-thought-out career path. However, I wonder if having a detailed plan is the ideal way to navigate a career. Life thrives on spontaneity, and embracing both the good and the bad can often lead to unforeseen opportunities. Sometimes, the 'plan' changes based on circumstances.

My Aspiration to Be a Doctor

Take my current aspiration to become a doctor for instance. Here’s a straightforward plan:

Study the pre-med program for 4 years. Take the MCAT during my final year of university. Enroll in medical school for 4 years. Complete a residency of 2-3 years. Bam, I’m a doctor!

Now, I fully acknowledge that not everyone follows this plan. But for those who do, there’s a common sentiment: having a specific plan often sets you on a path with clear objectives, whether perceived or given.

However, have you ever been in a situation where you lacked direction in your career? This article is for you. It’s about embracing the uncertainty and the flexibility that comes with not having a long-term plan.

My journey started with my father encouraging me to prepare for the JEE exam, aiming to get into an IIT, the most prestigious engineering college in India. My teachers and peers followed suit, pushing me to work hard, get good grades, and secure a good job. Each step was someone else’s goal, not my own. Once I got a job, my employer set Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for me to chase.

Exploring Roles Through the 'Method of Elimination'

By the age of 6 years in my career, my experience led me to explore many roles across various companies. Some were a forced move, and others were by choice. We can use the 'Method of Elimination' to potentially find the best fit. Here’s what my journey entailed:

After 5 years of studying Geology, I realized that if I couldn’t enjoy it after 5 years, I wouldn’t enjoy it for the rest of my life. I needed a change. My first role was as an 'Operations Analyst' after 10 straight failed interviews. While disappointing, I took it as a growth opportunity at an early-stage startup. I was then forced into the role of 'Account Manager' due to company restructuring. A few months of unemployment later, I joined Uber in the operations department and fell in love with the company and the people. After a drastic change in my life, I received an unexpected LinkedIn message and joined a FinTech startup called Revolut as a Product Manager.

Each role taught me something significant about myself and what I valued in a career. I learned that not knowing if there’s something better out there requires trying it out. Life is about embracing the unknown and making decisions that feel right for you.

Reminiscent of the quote, 'It’s easier to connect the dots looking back than looking forward,' I’ve come to cherish every experience. Flexibility and the constant need to adapt can lead to fulfilling career paths.

So, as you navigate your career, don’t be deterred by the lack of a well-defined plan. Embrace the journey, stay curious, and make choices that allow you to grow and thrive.