Why Your Career Should Be Squiggly, Not Straight: The Surprising Truth About Modern Success

Forget the Ladder: How Embracing a Squiggly Path Leads to Greater Fulfillment and Growth

In a world where technology, industries, and even entire professions are evolving at lightning speed, the old advice to 'climb the corporate ladder' feels increasingly out of touch. Enter the concept of the squiggly career—a bold, optimistic approach to professional life that values curiosity, adaptability, and self-awareness over linear advancement. The squiggly career isn’t just a trend; it’s a reflection of how work really happens now, and it’s the secret to thriving in the modern workplace.

Instead of seeing your career as a series of predictable promotions, imagine it as a vibrant, winding path—sometimes looping back, sometimes branching into new territory, always offering fresh opportunities for learning and growth. This shift in perspective is more than motivational fluff; it’s grounded in research and the lived experiences of countless professionals who’ve found greater satisfaction and success by embracing the squiggle.

Self-Awareness: The Foundation of a Squiggly Career
The journey starts with self-awareness. Understanding your strengths, values, and motivations is essential for navigating a nonlinear path. Tupper and Ellis recommend regular reflection and feedback—whether through journaling, conversations with trusted colleagues, or structured tools like strengths assessments. By knowing yourself, you can make intentional career moves that align with your evolving interests and aspirations.

Resilience: Bouncing Forward, Not Just Back
Resilience is another cornerstone of the squiggly career. In a world where change is constant, setbacks are inevitable. But as the book points out, resilience isn’t just about surviving adversity—it’s about using challenges as fuel for growth. Building resilience means developing habits that recharge your energy, cultivating a support network, and reframing setbacks as learning experiences. The most successful squiggly careerists are those who see change not as a threat, but as an invitation to explore new possibilities.

Skill Stacking and Lateral Moves
One of the most liberating aspects of the squiggly career is the freedom to make lateral moves and stack diverse skills. No longer is it necessary to specialize narrowly or wait for the next rung on the ladder. Instead, you can pursue projects, roles, or side hustles that broaden your expertise and open unexpected doors. This approach not only makes you more adaptable but also more valuable in an unpredictable job market.

Relationships and Community
Success in a squiggly career is rarely a solo endeavor. Building a community of confidants, advisors, and feedback friends is vital. These relationships provide encouragement, honest feedback, and access to new opportunities. The book emphasizes the importance of giving as well as receiving support—small acts of generosity can deepen trust and lead to serendipitous connections.

Purpose and Progression
Finally, the squiggly career is about defining your own version of success. Rather than chasing external milestones, focus on aligning your work with your values and finding meaning in everyday actions. Purpose is not a fixed destination but an evolving thread that guides your decisions and keeps you motivated through the twists and turns.

Practical Exercises and Mindset Shifts
Throughout the book and this blog, you’ll find practical exercises—like creating a 'success spectrum,' writing a personal purpose statement, or conducting a 'resilience audit.' These tools help you stay grounded and proactive, no matter how squiggly your path becomes.

In summary, the squiggly career is not a detour from success—it’s the new map. Embrace your unique path, invest in your growth, and remember: the most fulfilling careers are those you design for yourself.