The new Career Path: Micro-decisions, Disrupted paths, and the AI reset
The answer may not lie in bold leaps, but in subtle choices. Call them micro-decisions—those small, almost invisible actions that accumulate over time. They connect back to the idea of value and help you shape your personal and authentic corporate self.
In the corporate world, we often visualize success as a clearly (pre)defined career path in a vertical ladder. Rung after rung, each step representing a promotion, a title upgrade, bigger and bigger direct team, a seat closer to the top. This metaphor has shaped careers for decades.
The story. Climb playing the political game, work hard, "work" harder your visibility, demonstrate leadership, and manage stakeholders successfully (typically upwards).
It sounds linear. Predictable. Safe.
But what if things have changed and the ladder is no longer what it seems? At least most of the times?
The Myth of the Ladder
The traditional corporate ladder gave people a sense of orientation. Titles like “Manager,” “Senior Manager,” “Director,” and “VP” implied a hierarchy of status, value, power, and influence. Those who reached the top were viewed as kings and queens of their domain—those who had mastered the game and earned the throne.
Yet today, this kingdom is quietly dissolving.
