You've asked yourself these questions a thousand times and found no answer. Like most people, you hope for the best in your career, but have no idea what it takes to succeed. The secret to having a rewarding career, however, isn't as mysterious as many may think. The truth is, all a person may need to do to get ahead in the world of work is become a better planner.

Here are some of the guidelines for bringing fortune in your career:

Be active

Do not rely on other people to make plans for you. Identify the career choices right for you, rather than accept others' suggestions or whatever job is available at the moment.

Get involved

Discuss your career with family, friends and knowledgeable people as they relate to your career interests.Learn more through career research, job shadows and informational interviews.

Make compromises

Look for new opportunities and realistically appraise your career options. Understand that you will have to make some sacrifices, such as accepting a job that pays a hundred grand a year, but may come with only two weeks of paid vacation.

Set goals

Use short-term goals as benchmarks to stay motivated towards reaching long-term goals.Review and revise goals to meet your current needs.

In today's fast-paced, competitive job market, possessing one or two of these qualities won't cut it. People must develop the entire package to stay ahead of their competition and prepare for sudden career changes - good and bad.