The Five Year Rule

I have a rule that has guided my career since college. It has worked well for me and provided me a simple way to evaluate career opportunities.

When people hear my rule for the first time, their initial reaction is to laugh. After further reflection they realize it contains truths about professional career development.

The Five Year Rule

There are two reasons to have the same job for five (or more) years:

1. You love your job.
2. Another company wouldn't hire you.

There are a bunch of reasons to love your job, but make sure the reason you love your job isn't because you don't want to think about the second option.

WARNING: Do not attempt to apply this rule to personal relationships!