Volume XXIII, Number 13 (issue 1121) | March 31, 2025
Things that Come in Threes – Part III
Two weeks ago, we introduced three of the keys to success, at least when success is measured by getting ahead in one’s career. If you need reminding, those three qualities are smarts, ambition, and humility. Last week, in Part II, we took a deep dive into the humility leg of the stool. Today we will examine the ambition leg.
Ambition, or drive in pursuit of career success, by itself is not enough. Completing this leg also requires a couple of things coming together to complete this piece of the puzzle. For starters, you need a goal. Next, you need a plan. Fundamental to that plan is knowing the skills needed at each successive stop along the way. Without that knowledge – as well as a bit of help – it is hard to make progress. Obtaining that understanding of the prerequisites can come from one or more sources. Among organizations that are focused on succession planning and leadership development, you tend to see well defined and designed roadmaps. Those same organizations supplement the experiential learning with coaching, mentoring, and bosses who engage with their team.
The next element is a strong work ethic – that is, a commitment to log the hours and do the work required to make things happen. It is hard to say what sets the enormously successful apart from those who have a good but not illustrious career, but it strikes me the strength of one’s work ethic may be the differentiator. In my career I have met numerous successful people – in nearly every case they were willing to out work and out hustle everyone around them. Such efforts get noticed.
Do not get me wrong. There is much to be said for work-life balance. All work and no play does not only make Jack a dull boy, it also causes him to lose out on some of the greatest paydays life has to offer. Trust me, I know something about this. When I think about our four children it is impossible to miss both the quality and quantity of time they spend with our grandchildren (aka their children) in spite of their very demanding schedules. I wish I could take credit for their parenting skills. But in a practical sense being a fully present parent is something Sandy modeled for them. I, on the other hand, was absent the majority of the time. This is not a plea for sympathy. Rather, I am merely acknowledging the choice I and so many of my generation made in putting work first and family second. My dad was the breadwinner and disciplinarian in our home, and I simply followed in his footsteps. Only I did him one better because as a consultant, I spent a fair amount of my time on the road. In the process I enjoyed a successful career but missed a lot of things including time with the family.
So, let me summarize Part III – the second leg. Ambition without commitment rarely leads to career success. But commitment by itself is not enough. Add a goal, a plan, a supportive organization, and a strong work ethic and things can start to fall into place.
Soli Deo Gloria
“Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” Proverbs 16:3
J. Keith Hughey
Mobile: (210)260-0955
E-mail: keith@jkeithhughey.com
Website: www.jkeithhughey.com
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