The words ‘career development’ are surrounded by anxiety and stigma. The prospect is enough to confound and confuse even the best of us. But what do these words even mean? Let’s talk about what they should mean to you.

The most frightening part of developing your career is the uncertainty. What are you really passionate about; what are you good at; what is actually viable – in terms of income and orientation. It would be unwise and even idiotic to take steps and risks when these questions have not or cannot be answered. We live, now, in a global village. Our career options and choices have increased beyond our comprehension. But so has the fear and uncertainty. Statistics show that youth aspire more towards stardom and celebrity status than careers tailored to their talents or passions. Meaning that once adulthood arrives, they are unprepared and have little idea of what they can and want to do, so five years down the line they are in a job they don’t like and aren’t particularly good at. This should be avoided at all costs. And if the die is already cast? It’s never too late; corrective measures can be taken.

• Firstly, questions about your personality must be given the time and consideration, and must be answered.
• With the above in motion, the fear and uncertainty will be sharply reduced, leaving a clear and lucid mind with which you can proceed.
• The next step is activity, energy, and clarity of purpose. Find a way to incorporate your ambition with your current situation. If you can’t, then it’s not worth as much to you as you think.
• Work hard, work smart. You are your own brand; stay authentic and relevant.

Successful people are always optimising themselves, looking for ways to improve and move forward. Their business and careers follow suit because they understand the order. A very distinguished and successful investor once said to me “Do not chase the money or the result. Find something you’re good at and enjoy it. Work hard and be the best YOU possible and focus on the journey. All the rest will come as a result.” What does this have to do with career development? The answer is everything. To progress and move in a positive direction your path must be in a place where you will enjoy the scenery. If you love urbanised environments, don’t walk in the park, you’ll get lost. This is an understanding of universal balance.

The simple fact is that developing your career is intrinsically linked with developing your ‘self’. They should not be separate entities. By aligning these elements you raise your game and your trajectory towards a fulfilled career and a fulfilled life. Let them collide; the reaction will be dynamic.