I recently spoke with a client who is designing the next chapter of their career—deciding what they want to include (or exclude). They’re exploring which problems to solve, in what industry or position, and which companies align with their values. As a senior-level executive, they have the expertise and network to pivot in several directions. With wisdom comes intention, and it’s clear why they’re approaching this transition with such deliberation.

Yet, despite their strategic mindset, they are finding the process unexpectedly frustrating. The reason soon became clear:


As a senior executive, you’re no stranger to setting ambitious goals and achieving them. However, designing the next chapter of your career requires a different approach—one that emphasizes actions aligned with your values over fixating on specific outcomes. By focusing on what you can control—your decisions and actions—you’ll find greater clarity, fulfillment, and the ability to make a lasting impact.


Navigating Uncertainty and Overwhelm

The vast array of options available at this stage of your career can be paralyzing. Deciding which industry to pursue, what problems to address, and which organizations align with your vision can quickly become overwhelming. This uncertainty often leads to analysis paralysis, preventing meaningful progress. Moreover, fixating on specific outcomes—like a particular title, company, or financial target—creates tunnel vision, making the journey feel more like a high-stakes gamble than an opportunity for growth.

Shift in Perspective:
Instead of attempting to predict the perfect outcome, focus on actions that align with your core strengths and the impact you want to create. Ask yourself: “What problems am I most passionate about solving?” and “Which actions today will move me closer to that impact?” This approach not only reduces overwhelm but transforms the journey into a more intentional and fulfilling exploration.

Fear of Losing Relevance

For senior executives, staying relevant in a rapidly evolving landscape is a significant concern. The fear of becoming obsolete often leads to clinging to past strategies that no longer serve your vision or the market’s needs.

Shift in Perspective:
Rather than focusing on preserving your legacy, commit to continuous learning and calculated experimentation. Embrace roles and projects that challenge you intellectually and strategically. When you commit to action—learning, testing, and connecting—you remain relevant by evolving, not by defending the past.

Balancing Success with Fulfillment

At this stage, titles and compensation alone are rarely enough. The desire for impact and meaning takes precedence. However, focusing solely on outcomes like specific positions or financial goals can make the journey feel hollow.

Shift in Perspective:
Redefine success based on the impact you want to make and the problems you want to solve. Commit to actions that move you toward that impact—whether it’s driving industry transformation, mentoring future leaders, or championing sustainability. By doing so, you align your career with your values, making each step more rewarding and purposeful.

Overcoming Setbacks Gracefully

Setbacks at senior levels can feel personal and potentially reputation-damaging. Fixating on outcomes magnifies this impact, making it harder to recover emotionally and strategically.

Shift in Perspective:
Detach your self-worth from individual outcomes and view setbacks as valuable data points. This mindset allows you to adapt quickly, refine your approach, and move forward decisively. When your focus is on actionable adjustments—seeking feedback, testing new strategies—setbacks become stepping-stones rather than roadblocks.

Sustaining Momentum and Enjoyment

The constant drive for results without meaningful progress leads to burnout and a loss of enthusiasm. If the journey feels like an endless grind, it’s difficult to sustain momentum.

Shift in Perspective:
Infuse your journey with curiosity and exploration. Treat each action—whether it’s exploring a new industry, mastering a new skill, or building strategic relationships—as a way to uncover new passions and refine your direction. This not only makes the process more enjoyable but also ensures sustained energy and enthusiasm.

Embrace the Journey with Intention

Designing the next chapter of your career is about more than achieving specific outcomes; it’s about aligning your actions with who you want to become and the legacy you want to create. By committing to meaningful actions and letting go of the need to control the results, you’ll not only elevate your career but find deeper fulfillment and purpose.

Take the next step with intention. Commit fully to the actions that resonate with your values and expertise and allow the outcomes to unfold as they may. In doing so, you’ll not only shape your career but also create a legacy defined by impact, authenticity, and purpose