What’s more important in your career, knowing your destination or your direction?
And be honest, how do you feel when someone asks, “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”
In my coaching conversations, this is in the top 5 topics we discuss, and one of the most powerful shifts I see, moving from obsessing over the destination to trusting the direction.
🗺️ DESTINATION = A Fixed Endpoint
“Become a CMO by 35”
“Land a job at Google”
“Earn 6 figures”
These are clear goals, and yes, they can be motivating. But here’s the thing:
The world is changing fast, and so are we:
– Life rarely follows a straight line
– That dream job might not exist by the time you get there
– You might get there and feel… nothing
When we tie our success to a specific title or salary, we risk chasing someone else’s idea of a meaningful life.
And it puts a lot of pressure on your shoulders to control something you can’t control.
So let’s reframe the question.
Instead of “Where do I want to end up?” ask:
➡️ What kind of experiences do I want more of?
➡️ How I want my life to look like daily/weekly?
🧭 DIRECTION = A Guiding Compass
“I want to create things that are meaningful”
“I’m moving toward more freedom, impact, and fulfilment”
“I’m exploring work that aligns with my values and leaves space for life”
Direction gives you a sense of agency,
it opens doors you didn’t even know were there,
it lets you adapt, adjust, and evolve without losing your way.
It leaves room to enjoy the journey
My Take
✅ Direction helps you move forward with clarity and joy, even when the map changes, like a nice road trip.
So here’s the invitation:
1. Stop waiting for the perfect plan 5-year plan
2. Start with what matters to you (calibrate your compass)
3. Then start moving, slowly but surely, in the right direction.
4. Enjoy the journey
