Tributaries
Successful journeys are built from connections, not going it alone
One thing in particular has always bothered me about the career ladder concept. At the same time we are urged to find mentors, to build our professional network and make connections, climbing the ladder is seen as a solitary endeavor. It’s as if all those people just disappear when we discuss our professional success. Or worse, the only way we’re supposed to relate to others is assessing whether they’re “above” or “below” us.
The truth, of course, is that no one succeeds in a vacuum.
When I talk about the career river framework, I always mention how tributaries can feed and strengthen our river. Together we are more powerful and resilient. Connecting with and carving the way for others is absolutely central to a fulfilling professional life. Any definition of achievement that doesn’t recognize this is entirely missing the point.
There’s lots of evidence about the importance of connections for careers, whether it’s which connections can help you get a job or that leaders who prioritize values-driven relationships with employees are more successful.
Every stage of our journey is informed and improved by our connections to others. Whether it’s the advice my first boss gave me about how to propose changes to upper management (“condition the environment”) or the mnemonic device an experienced reporter taught me for calculating percent change (“Do journalists like math? NOO!” = new-old/old), my professional expertise is littered with lessons shared by others. Heck, I even use a French press for my coffee on the advice of a barista roommate of my friend. We talked one time, but she’s shaped my morning routine ever since!
And over time, we start to see how we, in turn, can start to help others.
You’re reading this because of the support and encouragement I’ve received from many people. I shout out the people who have shared resources and insights in practically every post. The career river concept exists because of a conversation, and this newsletter exists because a friend asked what I wanted to accomplish in the next 10 years. I’ve been encouraged to turn this into a podcast or a book, and a friend regularly texts me book title ideas (current frontrunner: “Ditch the Ladder: Take control and find fulfillment by navigating your career river.” We think a podcast could be called Happy Navigating).
To each of them, and all of you, I say thank you. We’re not going it alone. Recognizing that others contribute to our success is not weakness, it’s strength. We belong to a system of flowing support, our individual efforts nourishing a much larger ecosystem.
It’s not how high you climb. It’s who you inspire along the way.
Happy navigating,
Bridget
Want a non-extractive guide to networking? Check out www.startupofyou.com, by the cofounder of LinkedIn.