Where Do You Want to Be in Five Years? Building The Career You Deserve

Article By: Heather McCullough

Ten years into my career, someone asked me a pivotal question that completely reframed how I thought about work and professional development: "Where do you see yourself in five years?" I had no answer. My focus was locked on the daily grind, and I assumed my career progression would simply take care of itself as long as I worked hard, stayed personable, and checked all the boxes expected of a good employee. But that question lingered—a reminder that I was letting my career happen to me rather than taking control and shaping it based on my goals.

Now, in my current role and through coaching others, I regularly pose the same question. It illuminates both aspirations and actions: What do you want from your career, and what are you willing to do—or sacrifice—to get there? Caring about your job is one thing. Proactively planning and owning it? That’s a whole different game.

With the start of the new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on your ambitions, set clear goals for the future, and create a plan to achieve them. Here are actionable steps and strategies to help you steer your career and align it with your goals.

Key Components of a Career Blueprint

To build a career fueled by purpose and intention, incorporate these elements into your planning process:

1. Define Your Long-Term “Why” and Short-Term “How”

Before you decide what you want, take a moment and ask yourself why those goals matter. Your long-term "why" will serve as your compass. (It will serve you well to take a step back and think about why you became a lawyer in the first place. What drove you to achieve that goal?) Once your goals are clear, start identifying the measurable "hows" that will get you there. For example:

• Want a leadership role at your firm or company? Determine the skill set or accomplishments you'll need to secure that spot.

• Want to specialize in a specific area of law or segment of the market? Identify industry experts to learn from or conferences to attend.

2. Set Measurable Goals

Make sure your career goals can be measured regularly and achievable within your timeframe.

3. Write It Down

Document your goals and update your plan at least quarterly. When you write things down, they feel more tangible. Better yet, share your aspirations with someone you trust—mentors, peers, friends, spouse, or colleagues—who can support your progress and hold you accountable.

Six Actionable Tips to Take Control of Your Career

Here are ideas to incorporate into your plan that will help you become the architect of your professional future.

1. Align Talking Points to Your Aspirations

If your goal is leadership within your firm, communicate that intention clearly. Volunteer for roles that provide visibility and showcase your strengths, whether that’s joining committees, helping with mentorship programs, or supporting firm initiatives. Articulating your goals helps others see you in that future role.

2. Build Expertise in Areas That Excite You

Position your practice or skills toward a direction you’re passionate about:

• If you thrive working with manufacturing clients, invest extra time in that industry. Attend trade shows, network with other professionals, and educate yourself about key industry trends and challenges.

• Seek mentorship from seasoned experts in your area of interest to gain knowledge and actionable advice.

3. Understand Your Numbers

Financial benchmarks matter, especially in roles where revenue generation impacts career advancement. Know the metrics tied to promotions—billable hours, client growth, or revenue contributions—and evaluate how achieving them aligns with your goals. Then, clarify what financial success means to you personally.

4. Lead Through Ownership

Take ownership of something that matters—whether it’s a committee, a client relationship, or an internal initiative. Demonstrating your ability to lead and execute positions you as a trusted figure within your organization, paving the way for greater responsibilities.

5. Build Relationships and Leverage Your Network

Your success is amplified through collaboration. Foster meaningful relationships with peers and industry contacts. Be vocal about your career goals—people are more likely to support you when they understand where you’re headed. And don’t forget, relationships are a two-way street. Be generous with your time and expertise to return the favor.

6. Stay Flexible

Career paths are rarely linear. Be open to opportunities that align with your goals, even if they weren’t on your radar initially. For example, transitioning to a different specialization or accepting unexpected cross-functional roles could fast-track you toward your ambitions. The key? Recognize when a pivot aligns with your larger vision and seize it.

Additional Considerations

Tracking Progress

Don’t underestimate the power of regular self-assessments. At least twice a year, ask yourself:

• Have my goals shifted? If so, why?

• What progress have I made, and where am I falling short?

• Are my current actions aligned with where I ultimately want to be?

Use these check-ins to adjust your plan as life and circumstances evolve.

Leveraging a Mentor or Coach

Guidance from someone who knows your field and aspirations can be invaluable. Mentors provide feedback, share insights about navigating challenges, and expand your network, while a coach may help you clarify strategy or build specific skills.

Don’t Wait for Someone Else to Plan For You

The biggest mistake professionals can make is assuming their careers will naturally progress if they stay the course. The reality? No one will care as much about your trajectory as you. Your firm or company—and even your supportive colleagues—might guide you, but they won’t actively build the career you want. That requires proactive planning.

Take the time today to reflect, plan, and write down your aspirations. Want additional support? Lean on your network, connect with a mentor, or inspire someone else by asking, “Where do you see yourself in five years?” Sometimes, helping others find clarity can deepen your own.

It’s your career—own it!