Our careers might feel like an arc but they might actually be better described as a circle. Of course, it is impossible to ever return to any point in the past, as the person who arrives there is not the same due to experiences, changes, growth, etc., but in a functional sense, I do think we can use the circle analogy.
It’s impossible to maintain a positive slope to our career indefinitely…we age, the world changes around us, skills come and go, and we change. Accepting this general principle is helpful because it will reduce stress and help provide context regarding decisions about “what do I want to do next.”
In the spirit of this concept, I want to share a fictional story with you.
This is a story based on similar experiences from some incredibly successful people. It helps to highlight the importance of our “why” when it comes to deciding how best to reach our goals while creating impact. Whether you are just starting your career or coming back around to where it all began, I hope this story is helpful and can provide perspective.
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My name is Jordan Meeks*. With over 40 years of experience in the water and wastewater industry, I've seen my career come full circle. I started as an individual contributor, driven by technical challenges and the satisfaction of hands-on problem-solving. After years in management, I've recently made the transition back to being an individual contributor—and it has truly enhanced my quality of life while opening new avenues for impact.
Moving away from the demands of management has allowed me to reconnect with the technical side of our industry, which is where my passion began. Without the constant pressures of executive responsibilities, I find myself more focused and energized, able to dive deeper into the nuances of projects. There’s a distinct joy in knowing my work contributes directly to solving complex water issues, especially in an era of evolving environmental and regulatory challenges.
Beyond personal satisfaction, this shift has also given me the time to “give back” to my colleagues and the industry. As an individual contributor, I’m now more accessible to young professionals eager to learn, guiding them through the real-world complexities of water treatment. I’ve taken on a mentorship role in an informal capacity, sharing lessons from decades in the field, helping the next generation avoid pitfalls, and encouraging innovation.
Additionally, the reduced stress and flexible schedule have allowed me to participate in industry committees, engage in technical presentations, and support professional organizations. It’s fulfilling to advocate for progress and contribute to setting standards that will shape the industry for years to come.
Ultimately, this return to my roots has reinvigorated my career. It has shown me that there is profound value—and joy—in giving back, and that quality of life isn’t defined by titles, but by the impact one can make.
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I hope this story provided some perspective on the value of focusing on how a change in your goals might result in positive change in your professional and personal life. It can be scary to take, what feels like, a step back but it all comes down to what you value and how you measure it. There are rewards and satisfaction everywhere in life and it may not always be managing a larger P&L.
Wishing you all the best as we move through fall in the Mid-Atlantic and as you move through the seasons of your career!
If you want to share your story, don’t be a stranger—I’d love to listen.
*Fictional name. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.
Written by: Austin Meyermann, Founder and President of Hunter Crown, LLC
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