Below is a framework to outline your career. While the sections do not provide a step-by-step guide for succeeding in your profession, they should provide my recommended mindset for being useful.
Work
Providing for yourself and your loved ones is the principle motivation in your career. Paramount is that you do well in your day job, whether you are an employee or work for yourself. Be indespensible. More
Blueprinting
In addition to doing your job well, you will not advance unless you take it upon yourself to get better at your craft. Look for gaps in your knowledge and cultivate missing pieces. Continuously learn to increase your skill; others won’t. More
Projects
Regularly take on projects that others around you will find valuable. Be a self-starter. Take initiative and others will see you as a linchpin.