The Career Fuel No One Talks About: Skills, Experiences, and Relationships That Last a Lifetime

Forget quick wins—here’s how to build a career that keeps on giving.

What’s the difference between people who thrive for decades and those who fade out after a few years? According to The Long View, it’s all about the fuel you carry with you. Not just technical skills, but a trio of assets: transportable skills, meaningful experiences, and enduring relationships.

Transportable skills are abilities you can take anywhere—problem-solving, persuasive communication, emotional intelligence, and the knack for attracting and nurturing talent. These skills never go out of style. They’re the reason some people can switch industries or roles and still succeed.



Meaningful experiences are your adventures and challenges. Launching a new product, working abroad, or volunteering for a tough project all count. The more varied your experiences, the more resilient and creative you become. When the world changes—and it always does—these experiences let you adapt instead of panic.

Enduring relationships are perhaps the most powerful fuel. Mentors who guide you, colleagues who challenge you, and champions who open doors. These connections form an ecosystem of support and opportunity. The book’s stories show how a single coffee chat or a mentor’s advice can change the course of a career.

But fuel isn’t just for the early years. You need to refresh and invest in these assets at every stage. That means learning new skills, seeking out new experiences, and building new relationships even when you’re established.

Takeaway: Don’t chase quick wins. Invest in the fuel that lasts a lifetime—skills, experiences, and relationships. Your future self will thank you.

References: The Long View by Brian Fetherstonhaugh, Amazon summary, Blinkist review