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We all 'play the game' at work. As we begin our journey in the professional world, we're encouraged to compete, to participate in a system of promotions, pay raises, bonuses... but how far should we take this game? And, perhaps more importantly, where will this game take us if we limit ourselves to thinking this way? In attempting to master and gain an advantage in the 'system', we use short cuts, blips, hacks, or 'cheats.' Particularly in the early phases of professional life, it can be irresistibly tempting to focus on whatever tactics help us progress. But this comes at a cost. The longer we pursue this approach, the further we navigate away from meaning and purpose. The hacks and cheats start to define us. The professional persona or facade we assume becomes a parasite, feeding on our integrity and eroding our individuality. A Groundhog Career, through a combination of the hugely entertaining Shey Sinope fable, and the accompanying deeply insightful and thought provoking analysis from Drs Schuster & Oxley, illustrates the absurdities, temptations, rationalizations, consequences and compromises faced by anyone who wants to succeed in a world where all the power seems to be in the entrenched organizational systems. It also reveals how to be more aware of the risks, to stay aligned with your core identity and your convictions, and ultimately how to take control of your own career journey... to live professional life on your own terms.
About the author
Dr Helmut Schuster is a dual Austrian/British citizen who lives in London, UK. He is the former Group HR Director of BP PLC and Chairman of the Board for Ivocar Vivadent. He currently serves on the board of several dynamic start-up businesses including ExpectAI, a Greentech enterprise. Helmut is an active entrepreneur, investor, and frequent contributor to leadership and AFS Cultural programs. He completed his PhD in Economics from the University of Vienna.Dr David Oxley is a dual UK/US citizen based in Austin, Texas. David started his career as a management consultant before leading major people and corporate restructuring projects for BP PLC across Europe, USA, India, and the Middle East. He worked closely with Reliance Industries in India, one of BP’s partners, as they embarked on their big corporate restructuring. He currently spends his time researching and writing on future career trends for publications around the world including Fast Company, Forbes, Big Think, Reader’s Digest, and HR Today where he also serves as a member of the global advisory board. David was awarded his doctorate in Organizational Change at Cranfield University and his MBA from the University of Notre Dame.
Summary
Don’t let the professional world take you as its next unwitting captive; instead, discover how you can take control of your career and in the process find true meaning and lasting fulfillment.
