How to build the career you actually want

We’ve been living in a heightened state of economic uncertainty since March 2020. A lot has happened and is still happening. This platitude seems more relevant than ever: “Prepare for the worst, hope for the best.” But we also have to be honest. The Stoics talked about preparing for the worst 2,000 years ago. In a letter to Lucilius, Seneca wrote: “We should therefore reflect upon all contingencies, and should fortify our minds against the evils which may possibly come.” And while you’re preparing for what could go wrong, you can also work toward what you actually want. Maybe that’s a different field, your own business, or work that gives you more freedom. Recently, a 33-year-old reader shared the following with me: “I am currently and slowly working on a plan B for my career, which requires some time and planning, and my current job is actually convenient for the type of preparation needed before making the leap. I just find some days are harder to cope with than others and I find…