A Holistic Inquiry to Assess Your Odds of Making It in the Long Run

In Simon Sinek’s book, The Infinite Game, he posits that the most successful individuals and organizations play with an infinite mindset. They are focused not merely on winning or achieving short-term goals but on long-term viability and continuous improvement. Sinek writes, “The infinite-minded player understands that sometimes you are ahead and sometimes you are behind. The goal is not to win, but to keep playing.”

Many employers are increasingly embracing sustainability not just in their operations but also in their hiring practices. They seek candidates who align with long-term goals, exhibit resilience, and are committed to continuous growth. But have you considered if your career trajectory is sustainable? Let’s explore what it means to have a sustainable career and how you can assess your odds of making it in the long run.

 

What Does It Mean to Have a Sustainable Career?

A career may include some “sprints,” but to build the muscle of “thriving in the workplace,” it’s better to consider the journey a marathon. Let’s dive into what elements will help you weather ups and downs and keep the fires of satisfaction and well-being alive and burning.

A sustainable career provides you with the resources, opportunities, and environment to thrive long-term. It aligns with your values and goals, supports your growth and development, and allows you to maintain a healthy balance between work and life. Here are critical indicators to help you evaluate the sustainability of your career:

1. Balance

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for a sustainable career. If your work consumes all your time and energy, it’s easy to burn out. Consider the following questions:

• Do you have enough time for personal pursuits and family?
• Can you take breaks and vacations without feeling guilty or stressed about work?
• Can you set boundaries between your work and personal life?

2. Growth

Continuous growth and development are essential for long-term career sustainability. Stagnation can lead to dissatisfaction and a lack of motivation. Reflect on these questions:

• Does your job offer opportunities for learning and development?
• Are there clear pathways for advancement within your organization?
• Do you feel challenged and motivated by your work?

3. Satisfaction

Job satisfaction plays a significant role in career sustainability. It’s not just about the paycheck; it’s about finding meaning and fulfillment in your work. Ask yourself:

• Are you passionate about what you do?
• Does your work align with your values and goals?
• Do you feel recognized and appreciated for your contributions?

4. Health

Your physical and mental health are paramount to a sustainable career. Work should not come at the expense of your well-being. Consider these aspects:

• Is your work environment supportive of your health needs?
• Do you experience high levels of stress or anxiety related to your job?
• Can you maintain a healthy lifestyle while meeting your work commitments?

5. Values

Aligning your career with your values ensures that you work towards something you believe in, which can sustain you through challenging times. Reflect on:

• Does your job allow you to live your values?
• Does your organization’s mission and culture align with your beliefs?
• Do you feel that your work makes a positive impact?

 

Self-Assessment Questions

To further evaluate the sustainability of your career, consider these self-assessment questions:

1. Balance: How often do you feel overwhelmed or overworked? Can you prioritize your well-being without compromising your job performance?
2. Growth: What new skills have you learned in the past year? Are there areas in your career where you feel stagnant?
3. Satisfaction: On a scale of 1 to 10, how satisfied are you with your current job? What factors contribute most to this satisfaction or lack thereof?
4. Health: How does your job impact your physical and mental health? Are there changes you can make to improve your work environment?
5. Values: Do aspects of your job conflict with your values? How can you address these conflicts?

 

By considering these indicators and asking yourself these questions, you can better understand whether your career sets the pace for long-term success and fulfillment. Remember, the goal is not just to survive in your career but to thrive and continuously grow. Like in Sinek’s Infinite Game, the aim is to keep playing, evolving, and finding joy in the journey.