In my last post, I shared the “Tarzan Principle” for career advancement…
Don’t let go of the current vine until you have a firm grasp of the next one.
This principle emphasized the importance of doing everything you can to find your next career opportunity before your current one ends. Taken to the maximum benefit, proactively seeking out better jobs is a great way to advance your career despite general economic downturns. It empowers you to take and maintain control of your career results rather than leaving them in someone else’s hands.
In keeping with this theme, in this second installment of this series I want to share what I call the “Lone Ranger Principle”. The Lone Ranger television character was based upon Zane Grey’s 1915 book The Lone Star Ranger and the radio series The Lone Ranger which was broadcast from 1949 to 1957.
The main character derived his name from the fact that he was the only Texas Ranger in a group of six who survived an attack by old west desperados. He was never alone in his heroic exploits. As a matter of fact, his faithful Native American companion Tonto not only saved his life but also saved him from many other difficulties as they sought to bring a multitude of wild western criminals to justice.
This brings me to what I have termed the “Lone Ranger Principle” for career advancement, which is one of several statements contained in the little-known creed that guided the actors and writers responsible for bringing this character to life …
Be prepared physically, mentally and morally to stand up for what is right.
This principle reminds us that becoming complacent in our jobs can result in us failing to keep ourselves in good physical shape. It reminds us that we must strive to keep ourselves mentally competitive, so that we do not fall behind in our technological, professional or industry knowledge. And it also reminds us of the need to maintain high ethical standards, even when they may not be encouraged or be the norm in certain work environments. If we allow these types of shortcomings into our lives, our lack of preparedness can increase the odds of job loss and most definitely reduce our marketability when searching for a new job.
I have coached a wide range of executives and professionals. My experience confirms, in a general sense, my recommendation to seriously consider The Long Ranger Principle for career advancement.
What do you think about my recommendation? Do you think you could benefit from focusing some energy in one or more of these areas? If so, there is no time like the present. Taking steps to better prepare yourself in these areas can reap rewards not only in your career but also in your life as a whole!
