“It is what it is”.

In dynamic and demanding professional environments, a familiar temptation often appears: reshaping reality so it fits decisions that, at a given moment, feel convenient.When this happens, we tend to tell ourselves —and others— that “it is what it is.”

More often than not, this is not conscious acceptance, but rationalisation. A way of justifying small deviations from what originally defined our professional and personal direction.

Each of these decisions subtly recalibrates our internal compass. North does not disappear, but it shifts. And when that shift becomes consolidated over time, the distance from the original purpose grows.

The impact is not immediate, but it is cumulative.

As we continue building from a displaced north, the connection with our own trajectory weakens. Clarity about what we want to build, why we do it and from which values we make decisions begins to fade. The sensation of progress remains, but the sense of direction dissolves.

At this point, personal and professional development starts to be shaped by external factors. Context, organisational dynamics, environmental expectations or other people’s agendas begin to co-define our role, our priorities and our energy.

We are no longer operating at full potential. Part of our talent, judgement and capacity for impact is absorbed by trajectories that are not necessarily our own.

From a growth mindset, the key is not rigidity, but evolutionary coherence.

Growth means changing forms without losing direction. It means developing new capabilities, exploring new expressions of leadership and adapting to different contexts without abandoning the purpose that gives meaning to the journey.

When direction is clear, professional relationships become more solid and sustainable.

Reciprocity stops being transactional and becomes strategic: aligned, fair and consistent with who we are and with the value we bring.

True leadership —personal leadership included— begins when we take responsibility for holding our own compass.For consciously deciding what can be adjusted, what must evolve and what is non-negotiable.

Because sustainable professional growth is not about fitting into any available path, but about building your own.

Your trajectory belongs in your hands.Not in someone else’s.

By Miriam Ponce

Director Corporate Culture & Governance