Taking Charge of Your Career (HBR Women at Work Series)

18

A Detour Doesn’t Have to Compromise Your Goals

by Dorie Clark

For almost every professional, there are times when your career path deviates from what you might have hoped. For instance, you might face a layoff, a reassignment, a relocation, or the need to take time off for health issues or caregiving.

In the short term, the situation is clear: If you or another member of your household has lost a job, someone needs to make up for the lost income. If your kids cannot attend school in person, then someone has to stay home with them and supervise their virtual learning. And if you’re the primary caregiver to children or other family members, you need to ensure you have the flexibility at work to handle any situation that comes your way at home. ...