Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One Basket: Taking Control of Your Career Beyond Your Boss

In today’s professional landscape, the phrase “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket” couldn’t be more relevant—especially when it comes to managing your career and relationships at work. Far too often, people make the mistake of placing all their hopes, expectations, and aspirations in the hands of their managers. And when things don’t go as planned, it’s the manager who takes the blame for being toxic or unsupportive.

But here's a harsh truth: not all managers are well-trained. Some are thrust into leadership roles with little to no guidance. Expecting them to magically align with your growth goals can set you up for disappointment. Instead of falling into the trap of a victim mindset, it’s time to take back control of your own career—even if you're working for the worst boss imaginable

The Myth of the "Perfect Manager"

We’ve all heard it or maybe even said it: “If only I had a better manager, I’d excel.” While there’s some truth to the idea that a great leader can unlock your potential, the reality is that managers are human too. They have their own limitations, biases, and struggles, and many simply aren't equipped with the skills or emotional intelligence to manage their teams effectively. Yet, many professionals place the entirety of their job satisfaction and career trajectory in their manager's hands. When that manager falls short, it becomes easy to slip into a state of resentment or a victim mindset. This is a dangerous place to be, as it stunts your growth and blinds you to the opportunities available to shape your own path.

Taking Accountability for Your Career

Your career is your responsibility. Full stop. No matter how terrible your boss is, you are in control of how you respond to challenges, how you navigate office politics, and how you pursue your own development. It’s time to start thinking beyond your manager’s limitations and asking yourself: What can I do to move forward?

Here are a few ways to regain control of your career:

1. Invest in Self-Development??? Don’t rely on your manager to provide learning opportunities or mentorship. Seek out courses, books, webinars, or even communities that can help you grow. Look for mentors outside your current organization or industry who can provide unbiased guidance.

2. Build a Network??? Your manager is not the only gatekeeper to your success. By expanding your network both inside and outside the company, you open up new avenues for career advancement and skill-building. Your network can provide resources, introductions, and advice that you might not get from your direct superior.

3. Set Personal Goals??? What do you want from your career? Not your manager, not your company—but you. Define your personal career goals and start creating a roadmap to achieve them. This will keep you focused on your long-term vision, even if your day-to-day environment isn’t ideal.

4. Master Emotional Intelligence??? A terrible boss can push anyone’s buttons. But mastering emotional intelligence allows you to navigate those difficult moments with grace. Instead of reacting emotionally, learn to respond strategically. Understand what drives your manager’s behavior and figure out how to work with them without letting their shortcomings derail your success.

5. Document Your Achievements??? Keep a record of your accomplishments, even if they go unnoticed by your boss. This documentation will be invaluable during performance reviews, salary negotiations, or even when you’re ready to explore new job opportunities.

Don’t Be a Victim of Circumstance

Bad managers exist. That’s a given. But dwelling on what your boss isn’t providing will only keep you stuck in a cycle of frustration. Instead of giving away all your power, take it back by focusing on what you can control.

It’s time to stop putting all your eggs in one basket. Your manager can be a part of your career journey, but they should never hold the keys to your success. Shift your mindset from one of blame to one of ownership, and watch how it transforms not only your career but your outlook on life as well. Your career, like life, is a marathon. And in this race, it’s not the person with the best manager who wins—it’s the one who refuses to let external factors dictate their success.

By adopting this mindset, you can weather any storm, whether it comes from a challenging boss or an uncertain work environment. Take the reins, and remember: you are the architect of your own career.