The Dynamics of Subjective Career Success

The article below is based on a study* and helps you understand the key shifts in your career planning and goal setting.

As individuals progress through their careers, their perceptions of success often shift, affecting their career planning and goal-setting strategies. The following are five distinct components of how subjective career success perceptions tend to evolve:

1)Quitting the Strive for Financial Security and Recognition

Many workers, especially in early- and mid-career stages, focus on achieving financial security and external recognition. However, as they progress, these goals lose their motivating power. Individuals often move away from these success criteria as they feel secure in their achievements, seeking more personally fulfilling and long-term goals instead. This is well aligned with Maslow's hierarchy of needs theory.

2) Increased Focus on Personal Development

As financial and recognition-based goals decline in importance, there is a greater focus on personal development. Workers start to prioritize opportunities to expand their skills, knowledge, and personal fulfillment rather than material achievements. This shift represents a deepening engagement with learning and self-improvement as these elements become more attractive and valuable over time.

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3) Stronger Emphasis on Work-Life Balance

Another notable shift is the increasing importance of work-life balance. Over time, workers often prioritize non-work-related goals, choosing to allocate more time and energy to personal interests, family, and relaxation. This shift is driven by a desire to reduce work-related pressures and find harmony between professional and personal life.

The AAC soft skills courses include a module called Goal Setting and Career Planning that a psychology-qualified lecturer conducts to support you in this aspect.

4) A Shift Toward Service to Others

A significant shift occurs as individuals transition toward goals that emphasize service to others. This is often seen as a sign of maturity, where workers derive joy from helping others and engaging in communal activities. This shift is not only emotionally fulfilling but is also linked to higher career outcomes, as these individuals often experience greater satisfaction through meaningful social interactions and mentorship roles. This aligns with the highest level in Maslow's hierarchy of needs theory.

5) No Shift in Career Success Perceptions Across Phases

Despite these shifts, some individuals report consistent SCS perceptions throughout their careers. These workers maintain stable definitions of success, rooted in their initial goals, which may include both professional and personal aspirations.

*Hupkens, L., Solinger,O.N., Khapova, S. & Akkermans, J. (2021).The Dynamics of Subjective Career Success: A Qualitative Inquiry

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