IMHO, you need to have a plan. Just like when developing software, you need to define what you want and how to get there. The only difference is that life is not as easily navigable.

I offer you my experience. There are two things that I love to do. Play with computers and play with music. Obviously computers is a little more lucrative and much easier to do.

Since 1991 I have been in the "IT" sector. I started assembling computers, then went to tech support. From there I went to systems administration. Then I went to consulting. Now I am in development. Look at my node for some history.

My ultimate goal is systems architecture.(As opposed to management)I need to be able to create. I want to be involved in every step of the creation process from drawing board to ribbon cutting. I have a goal.

The current job was one that I would have never considered. When they called me for the interview my initial thought was "what could these people possibly offer me?" During the interview I found out the team I would be on works with VB, C and Perl. When I got through with the interview I was praying that they would call me.

Create a goal and head down that hallway and as you head down the hallway, doors all along it will open up for you while you are on your way!