GoKawiilAT&T Exec Joe Drygas Shares Framework for Internal Career Growth
Joe Drygas, Vice President of AT&T's Global Enterprise Business, describes how he rose through the company over 25 years by treating each new role as requiring a reinvented version of himself, comparing the approach to how elite athletes adapt their training as their roles evolve. He also credits deliberate scheduling of personal routines, like workouts and sleep, with reducing uncertainty and improving his leadership clarity.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Drygas's advice reflects a broader shift in corporate career development away from static job titles toward continuous self-reinvention, a mindset increasingly emphasized as companies restructure roles faster than ever. His scheduling insight also underscores how personal routine management is being recognized as a leadership skill, not just a wellness tactic.
- Drygas advocates viewing career progression like athletic training, requiring constant skill refreshment.
- He rose through AT&T over 25 years by treating each new role as a distinct transformation.
- Scheduling personal activities like sleep and workouts reduces cognitive load and boosts leadership clarity.
The First 90 Days" by Michael D. Watkins — If Drygas's advice about every new role requiring a new version of you resonates, this is the classic playbook for exactly that transition. Watkins breaks down how to diagnose a new role, build the right network, and secure early wins — the professional equivalent of retooling your training regimen for a new season.
See The First 90 Days" by Michael D. Watkins on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: entrepreneur.com — Dan Bova, 2026-09-03
Published there as: “‘Treat Your Career Like an Elite Athlete Treats Training’: The Best Advice for Working Your Way Up in Business”
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