Hey Friends,

There’s a quiet risk that creeps in—during both comfort and chaos:
We lose focus.

We get caught up in the day-to-day. The meetings. The inbox. The job hunt. The pressure to move fast.
And somewhere along the way, we stop asking the bigger question:

Where is this taking me?

I see it all the time in coaching conversations.
Early career growth often comes through strong performance—and sometimes, that’s enough.

But then something shifts.

Maybe the phone stops ringing.
Maybe your advocate retires.
Maybe you're doing great work… but no one’s offering what’s next.

The truth is:
​Career growth isn’t passive. It’s a skill.​
And one we can’t afford to neglect.

Where do you start?

Begin by understanding which stage of your career you're in—and what kind of focus that stage requires.

In Career by Design, I introduce the Career Matrix, a framework with four evolving stages:

Exploration — Learn, experiment, and stay curious about what energizes you.
​Transition — Reframe, reset, and move forward with intention.
​Mastery — Deepen your expertise and expand your influence.
​Legacy — Focus on impact, mentorship, and lasting contributions.

These aren’t fixed phases.
We move between them based on our goals, interests, and life circumstances.

But here’s what matters most:
​Each stage requires a different kind of attention.

A few ways to refocus this week:

• Set aside 30 minutes to reflect: What stage am I in—and what does that mean for my next steps?
• Look at your calendar. Are you investing in growth, or only delivery?
• Ask yourself honestly: Am I defining my path, or waiting for someone else to do it?

Want to go deeper?

I break this down fully in my latest blog:

​C​areer Drift is Real - Why Career Focus Matters More Than Ever​

It’s a practical guide to help you reconnect with your goals, understand what stage you're in, and stay intentional—whether you're in a role, in transition, or preparing for what’s next.

Because your career deserves your attention.
And the future won’t design itself.

With you on your journey,

Nitza
Owner | Nitza Rivera Coaching & Consulting
Author of Career by Design: Mastering the Art of a Rewarding Corporate Career​

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About the Author: Nitza Rivera is an executive coach and human capital consultant with a background in mechanical engineering and HR. She helps professionals master career transitions, achieve their dream roles, and find lasting career fulfillment. Nitza is passionate about aligning professional growth with personal values and guiding individuals through meaningful career transformations.

Feeling stuck on how to align your career with your values and strengths? Let’s talk. Schedule a free discovery call here!

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