Create a Trail of Bread Crumbs

Over the weekend I helped out friends by taking care of their two daughters. Bathed and tucked in bed it was story time. At Emma and Jenny’s request I picked up Grimm’s Fairy Tales. I had forgotten the impact these stories had on me as a child.   Reading several of the stories I finally got to Hansel and Gretel.  At first glance it is a story of fear of abandonment and hunger, betrayal and ultimately trust. The story also reinforces ideas of courage, resourcefulness, perseverance and resilience to successfully overcome all obstacles and reap rewards. Lessons worthy of reminder. 

There’s another lesson to learn from Hansel and Gretel. In life and in work there’s a path; a trail of bread crumbs you set out and follow to achieve your goals. Having goals can make you happier and more confident—now and later.  Studies have shown that increased goal-setting in your twenties leads to greater purpose, mastery and well-being in your thirties. Goals are how we declare who we are and who we want to be. Goals are how we structure our years and our lives. Goals are the building blocks of adulthood.

But a goal without a plan is just a wish, according to Antoine de Saint-Exupery a French aristocrat, writer, poet, and pioneering aviator. Wishing for the job that starts your career after graduating will not help you achieve your goal.  Consider the following.

1.  What are your expectations and goals?
2.  What is your path?

     -  What are you doing?

     -  Why are you doing it?

     -  How what you are doing fits into your life plan?

3. What is the path of bread crumbs you can set out and follow to achieve your goals?

    -  What is important to you in a job, career, company?

    -  What companies meet your criteria?

    -  What value do you offer?

    -  How can you reach those companies?

    -  What actions are you taking?

Graduating is like the story of Hansel and Gretel. You are pushed out into the post-college world and because you know when it’s coming you prepare your path. There will be obstacles. Show your courage, resilience and perseverance. And for that you will be rewarded with a job.