Why We Wrote You Next: A Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Charge of Your Career

The inspiration behind writing You Next was rooted in a desire to help people reclaim control of their lives and careers.

Too often, I have seen talented individuals stuck in roles that drain their energy, working for organizations that do not value them, or living in places that no longer feel like home. They stay because they feel trapped, unsure of their next steps, and overwhelmed by the fear of change. This book is for them.

Work Is not always bliss—and that is okay.

Let us be honest: work is work. It is not always going to be exhilarating or easy. There will be days when it feels like a grind. But that does not mean you should settle for a life where you dread every Monday or feel unappreciated and unfulfilled. You Next is about finding that sweet spot where your job aligns with your values, leverages your strengths, and positions you to grow—even if it’s not perfect every single day.

This message is particularly important for talented individuals who want to rise to their full potential. Whether you are a mid-level manager looking to help your team thrive, a transitioning military member embarking on your next chapter, or a professional at a crossroads, You Next is your roadmap. It’s a call to action for those who want more than just a paycheck—those who want a career that fits their life and goals.

Helping People Avoid the “Someday Syndrome”

I have encountered so many people who suffer from what I call the “Someday Syndrome.” “Someday, I’ll leave this job.” “Someday, I’ll start that business.” “Someday, I’ll move to a city that excites me.”

Someday often turns into never. Life is too short to wait for the perfect conditions. This book is about helping people take charge now, using practical strategies to evaluate their current situation, identify their next steps, and make meaningful changes without waiting for “someday” to arrive.

A Toolkit for Military Transitions

As a Navy veteran, I understand the unique challenges of transitioning from military service to civilian life. The military provides structure, camaraderie, and a clear sense of purpose—things that can be hard to replicate in the civilian workforce.

You Next offers guidance for veterans navigating this shift, helping them translate their skills, redefine their mission, and find fulfilling roles in the private sector. It is about showing them that their service was the foundation for an impactful second act, not the peak of their professional life.

Empowering Mid-Level Managers to Build Future Leaders

Mid-level managers play a critical role in the development of their teams. They often see the raw talent and untapped potential of their people, but many do not know how to encourage growth in a way that leads to meaningful career advancement.

You Next provides tools and strategies for managers who want to inspire their employees to step up, take the initiative, and chart their own paths. By doing so, these managers not only empower their teams, but also create stronger, more dynamic organizations.

Why This Matters Now

We are living in a time when the nature of work is shifting rapidly. Remote work, automation, and changing industries have altered the career landscape. For many, the old rules of climbing the corporate ladder no longer apply. You Next and the resources at the book site, www.YouNextNow.com are the tools they need to navigate this new reality, whether they’re seeking a new job, pivoting to a different field, or simply looking to feel more fulfilled in their current role.

Ultimately, my motivation for this book is because we believe everyone deserves a career that aligns with their aspirations and values. But achieving that requires intentionality, courage, and a willingness to take risks. You Next is the guidebook for those ready to make that leap. If it helps even one person leave behind a bad job, a bad boss, or a bad situation for something better, then writing will be worth it.