Technical Vs. Management

Yesterday I had a very serious converstation with my tech friend from work about my career. I was still complaining about not getting the promotion I was so sure I was up for and how at least three people asked why I didn't put in for the open position as supervisor of our plant Environmental Operations group. I told her that I'm just not interested in going into supervision because I don't want the headaches. She asked me what I really want to do long term. I told her that I'd like to be the Vice President of Global Environmental, Safety, & Health in 20 years. She said I'd have to go into management to do that, and there'd definitely be supervisory positions involved if I was ever going to be able to do that. I lamented and said that I don't think I'm cut out for supervision. She hit the nail on the head and said, "You need to make a decision soon on what career path you're going to take because the further along you get, that door to supervision will slowly close." I know she's right, and she was even more right when she said I shouldn't rule out management just because I'm scared of failing (which I am). I just don't know if I have what it takes to make it!

I came home and pondered the situation for a better part of the evening, and even considered calling Carlos (who was recently promoted AGAIN since going the management route) to ask him what it takes. I decided against the phone call and cleaned my bathroom and did laundry instead. I told myself, "You don't have to decide tonight", but I know I need to decide soon...very soon....because just like marriage, it becomes a lot harder to be successful the later you start in life.