No Five Year Plan

Your birthday is as good a day as any to reflect on where you are, and where you’ve been.

It’s a passion of mine to share what I learn. I’ve noticed that through teaching and mentoring, students often ask, “where do you see yourself in five years?” You know, the five year plan. The success track you’re supposed to have laid out for yourself.

And, well… I don’t think I have one.

Sitting in my cubicle at an ad agency four years ago, I’d be hard pressed to believe that I’d wind up designing at Threadless, and soon after 37signals. I didn’t think I’d be teaching, lecturing, or hosting events. I didn’t plan for any of it. I don’t know what I’m doing five days from now, let alone five years from now.

I’ve learned that more or less, what you do today paves way for what people hope from you tomorrow.

Another year, and I still don’t feel like I’ve become an expert at anything. (It’s exciting.) So, thanks for all of the birthday wishes.

Today, today will be a good one.