Do you think we all need to fight for career survival, knocking others off the ladder on our quest to move to the top? Or is there another smarter and resilient way to reach your peak potential?

On the first rung of the career ladder, you will need to think objectively about your career goals, preferences and strengths, as well as be aware of your weaknesses. Do not rush this important step. It will decide whether you are able to manage your tasks and you will also be happier knowing that you like what you will be doing.

Deciding on the job

Not sure if your job's the right fit for you? Make a list of your likes and dislikes. Then ask yourself if you encounter more 'likes' than 'dislikes' in your current job.

Knowing your organisation and colleagues

Once you have a clearer picture of yourself and your career goals, get to know the working environment of the organisation. For instance, find out:

• The organisation’s values, vision and mission. Is it something you believe in, too?
• The organisation’s corporate culture. Does it match your career goals and values?

Communicating and understanding your colleagues is also important for career resilience. It gives you an avenue to seek help if you have problems at work and your colleagues will be there to guide you on how to achieve your work objectives.

Climbing up the rung

Work brings new opportunities and challenges and how you respond to these will determine your resilience for success. Being resilient will help you bounce back from difficult situations, and face work challenges in a positive way.

Staying true to yourself

As you move up, remember to stay true to what you believe in. Respect your colleagues who may have personalities, cultures and values that are very different from your own. Explore ways to collaborate with them so that everyone can benefit and become an effective team player.

Managing change positively

Sooner or later it will be time to take another step up the ladder. The next rung is all about change - organisational change. Be mentally resilient and learn to manage change positively.

Find your own preferred strategies for managing and accepting change. Obtaining feedback from clients, bosses, co-workers or family and friends, whether critical or complimentary, is a good way to manage change. Learn to identify which comments are constructive, even if harshly delivered, and which can be ignored. Remember, being mentally resilient to manage and to accept changes is a step up your career ladder.

Setting priorities right

As you continue up the ladder, you may find yourself in a managerial position. Nuturing your staff with guidance, support and feedback is important, just as you needed when you were new. With greater responsibilities come greater challenges, such as the need to manage higher expectations. You have to set your priorities right by balancing your career and other priorities in life, for example family life.

Moving up the career ladder is a challenge, so being mentally resilient to cope with the corporate and people changes, is vital for your success. Don't give up! Learn to manage your career effectively.