Imagine that your career is a coast-to-coast road trip. There are many stops along the way, some occasional side roads, hills to climb, valleys to navigate and even some bad weather here and there. Much like the moves you make while driving your car, each step you take in your career needs to be with a purpose in mind. Keep from getting lost in unfamiliar territory by staying focused on your ultimate destination!

1. Pick your ultimate destination
2. Define your Happy Path
3. Have a Plan B
4. Outline your search objectives
5. Stay focused
6. Don’t compromise your values
7. Go the distance
8. Remap your path regularly

Strategic career planning doesn’t have to be stiff or mechanical. You can have fun and also proceed with purpose. Sometimes you might even take a side road for a few years – but do so with your ultimate destination in your sights so that you can find the main road again when you are ready for it.

Until next time, to your success!