Who’s shaping your path? Thinking beyond the career Box

Have you ever asked yourself: Am I living a life that excites me, or am I following a path shaped by others' expectations? It’s a question that can be easy overlooked as we get caught up in the daily hustle, chasing our many goals. But sometimes, a simple conversation can spark the kind of reflection we didn’t realise we needed.

This summer, my mum asked me an unexpected question: "What exactly is your job? Are you still in recruitment?" Her curiosity, much like that of many others, reminded me of a day not too long ago when I was shifting between two very different projects—conducting a talent search for a high-profile client and pitching a big project for BRODIANCE in a completely different industry. The contrast in my day-to-day activities got me thinking about how diverse my work has become.

Her question surprised me, though. We’ve never really talked much about my work. She knows I founded Brodard Executive Search , but beyond that, we tend to keep our conversations light when it comes to professional life. Occasionally, her friends would mention they had read something about me, or someone would tell her they heard me or saw me on television. But we’ve always followed a "less is more" approach when it comes to discussing my career with my family. Don’t brag, don’t show off—just be happy.

Still, her question made me pause. What is it that I really do? How can I explain it when someone ask me. Over the years, I’ve come to realise that many people struggle to fully understand what I do...and I think many of us can relate to that feeling. We live in an era where careers no longer fit neatly into a single box. People try to label us based on what they see, but the truth is that most of us wear many hats. My work, for example, spans across multiple industries, interests and activities. And while it might seem scattered to some, for me, it’s all connected by a sense of purpose.

When friends ask how I manage to juggle it all, I always say the same thing: as long as I’m enjoying myself and learning, I’ll keep doing it. The energy to take on new challenges comes from curiosity and interest behind them. And I think that’s something anyone can relate to. When we find meaning in what we do, it doesn’t feel like a burden—it feels like an opportunity.

But how often do we actually stop to think about why we do what we do? Are we chasing goals that genuinely excite us, or are we simply following the path that’s been laid out for us by society, family, or our ego ?

Happiness is not a destination; It’s a direction

A few years ago, I had big ambitions—my goal was to build a large agency, expand across Switzerland and internationally and hire senior-level employees. But when the pandemic hit, it forced me to pause and reflect. It made me question what truly mattered. I realised that the vision I had was more about ego than fulfillment. What did I really want to build? Today, I find much greater happiness with a smaller, more focused team, where the work is meaningful, collaboration is genuine, and egos are left at the door.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that happiness is a fixed destination—something we’ll reach once we get the promotion, buy the house, or hit a financial milestone. But in reality, happiness is not something we arrive at; it’s a direction we take every day. It’s the small choices we make, the daily wins, and the moments of joy that add up over time. Progress, not perfection, is what matters

You know it already, true happiness doesn’t come from material success or quick fixes. It’s built on strong pillars: meaningful relationships, a sense of purpose or making a positive impact. And here’s the thing: it’s not only the big gestures that matter .... small, everyday acts of kindness and connection can have just as much impact. The joy of a simple conversation, making someone smile, an unexpected act of kindness, or a shared moment of understanding can be just as fulfilling as grand achievements.

When we nurture these pillars in our lives....building strong relationships, finding purpose in our work, and contributing to the world around us, we create a life that feels rich and rewarding.

So, here’s a question for you: Are you living a life that truly excites you, or are you following a path defined by someone else’s expectations? It’s worth taking a moment to pause and reflect on what truly drives you.

For me, no matter how others try to define or categorise what I do, I’m proud of the path I’ve carved. I refuse to let society box me in. I’m a curious spirit, always hungry for discovery and full of energy. And when I need to, I know how to step back, recharge, and recalibrate. After all, we each have our own rhythm, and knowing when to slow down is just as important as knowing when to push forward.

So, dear friends, don’t be afraid to explore.... Don’t let anyone put limits on what you can do. Find your balance, your path. Be bold, be creative, and let curiosity guide you. And most importantly....have fun.

Have a great week

NB

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