Why is Having a Career Difficult?

Why are careers so difficult? This question has led me to think about the famous line from Scott Peck’s book, "The Road Less Traveled".

Scott Peck, the author of that famous book, died recently at the age of 69. He was a psychiatrist and author and self help guru. His most famous books sold 10 million copies and were on the New York Times bestseller list for over 8 years.

I am not sure if you have read "The Road Less Traveled", however, one of the reasons it is famous is a result of the first line - "Life is difficult" - which essentially was the thesis of his book. Mr. Peck’s premise was that once you understood this, and entered into life with this understanding, it would really help to frame your expectations and results. So this is the human experience, imperfect in all its ways.

So it is with careers. We often think that if:

1. We go to a good school

2. We graduate

3. We get a Job and

4. We work hard and are nice

that we will live “career” happily ever after.

I think we should accept that managing a career is challenging and fraught with danger and opportunity. Then, when things don't go the way we expect or there are injustices or challenges, we are not surprised, but accept them for what they are. Any other expectation is inaccurate. We have to take our careers seriously, but with the understanding that we can't always control the outcomes.

If we see it any differently, then we are naïve. I don't think this is being negative -I would say I am an optimist and a pragmatist. Look for the good and expect challenges, so that when they happen, you won't be thrown off.

Do you want to talk about your career hurdles and challenges? Why not give us a call. We can help you find the right perspective.