What Got You Here Won’t Get You There
A key insight is that many professionals try to advance by relying on the skills and habits that got them to their current level. However, reaching higher leadership positions requires new perspectives and a willingness to stretch beyond the familiar. "Thinking about the next level and thinking like the next level" means shedding old ways of working and adopting a mindset that aligns with the responsibilities and challenges of a leader.
For example, those moving from an individual contributor role to leading a team face an entirely different skill set. It’s not just about performing well personally but developing others and managing team dynamics. There’s a major shift from being an expert to becoming a mentor—a critical skill for any leader.
Stepping Out of Your Silo
When it’s time to make a career move, many professionals find they’ve been working in isolation, focusing only on their day-to-day tasks without building networks or enhancing leadership skills. If you’ve been "heads down," focusing exclusively on your work, it’s time to look up. Engaging with executive search firms, attending leadership seminars, and talking to mentors are effective ways to gain perspective and ensure you’re preparing for the next level, not just staying at the same one.
The advice? Reach out to others before you even begin the job application process. Consulting with people already in the roles you aspire to provides invaluable insight, allowing you to identify and develop the skills that role demands.
The Value of a Growth Mindset
At the core of career progression is believing in your potential and embracing a growth mindset. Confidence and self-belief are foundational. For many, a lack of self-esteem and overwhelming doubt can act as barriers to even trying to progress. "If you don’t believe you can, you’ve already lost." The key is to commit to a vision for your future and pursue it relentlessly.
To sustain this belief, ground your goals in habits and systems. Whether it’s waking up early to get a head start on the day or surrounding yourself with a support system, it’s crucial to align daily actions with long-term aspirations. And, as Patricia points out, there’s always a “cringe phase”—a period where you’re not very good at what you’re attempting. But that phase is essential to learning and growth.
The Power of Community and Team
Building a successful career doesn’t happen in isolation. A huge part of the journey involves assembling a team to amplify your efforts and help bring your vision to life. While you might develop content and create strategies, having others on board to execute the plan frees you to focus on what you do best, be it coaching, leading, or innovating.
This same principle applies to any leader. The power of community and teamwork can be a game-changer, whether you’re in an entry-level role or running a multimillion-dollar business. Having people who can handle different aspects of your work improves efficiency and provides a sense of accountability and shared purpose.
Transforming Pain into Purpose
Success stories are rarely linear. For those who have faced challenges, those setbacks can become fuel for a greater purpose. Turning personal pain into impactful work not only creates a unique value proposition but also brings authenticity and resilience to your work. By finding a way to make your challenges purposeful, you not only help others but create a fulfilling path forward.
At the end of the day, the journey to your next level isn’t just about acquiring new skills or climbing the ladder. It’s about expanding your vision, committing to growth, and being unafraid to leave behind the things that no longer serve you. Take it from Anthony Flynn: you’ve got everything you need to succeed, as long as you’re willing to bet on yourself and put in the work.
Keep striving, and remember: you’re closer to your success than you think.
