Be Stubborn on Vision, Flexible on Journey: Lesson 8 of 31
Stay committed to your vision, but remain open to alternative paths.
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I've always been drawn to solving problems. Growing up, friends and family would often turn to me for advice or a fresh perspective, and I found genuine fulfillment in guiding them through their challenges.
During my university years, I stumbled upon the world of management consulting—a field where professionals solve business problems for organisations. It sounded like the perfect fit for me—a role where I could harness my problem-solving skills on a larger scale. Naturally, I set my sights on becoming a management consultant.
However, fate had other plans in store for me.
The traditional consulting paths did not pan out as expected. Some applications ended in rejection, while others stalled indefinitely due to one reason or another, such as requesting an interview reschedule and hearing nothing back.
So, I started my career in HR.
After 4+ years rising through the ranks as an HR professional, it hit me that while I was rapidly climbing the proverbial career ladder, I was on the wrong wall.
I still very much wanted to be a management consultant.
Over the next four years, I deliberately sought alternative routes. My career journey took several twists and turns, leading me from HR to Strategy, then to Strategy and Operations, and eventually to Organisational Change and Transformation.
Alongside my full-time roles, I actively sought out opportunities to gain consulting experience, participating in externships with two consulting firms. These experiences allowed me to work on consulting projects whilst honing my skills and expanding my network within the industry.
Today, nine years after my career journey began, I can boldly call myself a management consultant, particularly after recently starting a new role as an Organisational Culture Consultant at a consulting firm.
It still feels surreal sometimes.
The pivots and externships throughout my career paid off, leading me to where I am now—even though the traditional consulting paths I explored early on did not succeed.
Remember: Vision endures; Paths may change.
Stay adaptable, exploring alternative routes when faced with challenges, whilst remaining steadfast in your vision.
Wishing you courage and clarity on your path,
O’Seye
PS 1: Thank you for the well wishes from last week’s newsletter. I am deeply grateful.
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