Use your career to do work that truly matters to you. Be the commander-in-chief of your life, not the grunt. Don’t labor just to pay your bills, to satisfy your boss, or to make someone else rich. Work for the ongoing betterment of yourself and others.
A consequence of living a principle-centered life is that you’ll naturally attract and accept more responsibility, eventually rising into a leadership role. This may include the external trappings of authority such as a management position, but it may also manifest as a less formal ability to influence others. Either way, such principle-centered leadership is well deserved. It’s intelligent for all of us to be guided by those who are truthful, loving, and powerful. Those who succumb to falsehood, apathy, or timidity don’t make good leaders.
There are many leadership styles, but all effective leadership must be centered in the principles. We respect leaders who speak truthfully and authentically, even if we don’t always agree with their decisions. We connect with leaders who show compasion, caring, and kindness. And we’re empowered by leaders who demonstrate focus, effort, and discipline in doing the important work that needs to be done.
Building a successful career is both a privilege and a responsibility. The more authority you bring to your career, the more you can do to serve others, and the greater your impact will be. This is an honor to be accepted and embraced by those who are ready for it.
* Source: Personal Development for Smart People by Steve Pavlina