Table of Contents Introduction A Brief History of Civilization Four Dimensions and Four Portals of Perception Contracting, Consulting, and the Personality Traits that Support Success The Mixture of our Dimensional Perceptions Summary: Contracting and Consulting as influenced by our Dimensional Perceptions Who are you? Thinking Through Your Dimensional Perceptions How Personality Relates to Stress in our Careers Should I or shouldn't I … the Final Analysis

Should I or Shouldn’t I … the Final Analysis

It really comes down to what's best for you. I hope that phrase sounds less empty, now that you've started to explore your own personal preferences.

Don't be swayed by people who do well in Contracting and Consulting, unless the challenge really speaks to you. Yes, some of us will call captive employees names like "tree-huggers" and "scardy-cats," but that's because the challenges of captive employment don't speak to us.

Whatever path you choose, please realize that, for most industries, the "permanent" job disappeared in the 1990s. We don't know when it will return. Corporate American has misled us, and it will continue to manipulate us. Companies will serve their best interests. Don't be bitter about that. Simply remain aware of the fact and use it for your benefit.

As corporations reduce their "permanent" head counts, they generally hire Contractors or Consultants to get the job done. We get paid more to work in this way, but we also have to take more responsibility for our future, our career, and our retirement. It's a slippery slope that requires constant dancing, juggling, and knowing how to look good all at the same time. If you love to dance, can juggle well, and can help others recognize the best of what you have to offer, welcome aboard. You're in for the ride of your life.