Second Curve Compass Quiz: Where Are You in Your Career Journey?
What is the “Second Curve”?
Arthur Brooks, in his book Strength to Strength, describes two curves of success in life. The first curve is fueled by fluid intelligence—the ability to learn quickly, solve problems, and achieve through drive and ambition. This curve often dominates the early and middle stages of our careers.
But over time, that curve naturally declines. The good news? A second curve is waiting. This one draws on crystallized intelligence—the wisdom, insight, and perspective that come from experience. On the second curve, meaning is found less in climbing higher and more in teaching, mentoring, creating, and leaving a legacy.
The challenge is that many of us resist this shift. We cling to our first curve identities and achievements, even when they no longer serve us. The opportunity is to recognize the transition and embrace the freedom and fulfillment the second curve can bring.
About the Second Curve Compass
The Second Curve Compass is a reflection tool I created to help you see where you are on your journey. It’s inspired by Arthur Brooks’ idea of the “two curves” from Strength to Strength, but offers a coaching lens to make it practical and personal.
Just like a compass helps you find direction when the path isn’t clear, this tool is designed to show whether you’re primarily operating from the first curve (achievement and climbing), the second curve (wisdom and legacy), or in the transition space between them.
It’s not about judgment—it’s about awareness. And awareness is what helps you take your next purposeful step.
Instructions
Read each statement below.
Circle or note how much you agree (1 = Not at all, 5 = Very much).
Add up your scores in each section.
Part 1: First Curve — Achievement and Climbing
My sense of identity is closely tied to my title or role.
I measure success by accomplishments, recognition, or outcomes.
I thrive on problem-solving, speed, and mastery of new challenges.
I often feel pressure to stay at the top of my game.
Slowing down or letting go feels uncomfortable.
Total Score (5–25): ______
Part 2: Second Curve — Wisdom and Legacy
I find meaning in mentoring, teaching, or passing along what I know.
I feel energized by reflection, creativity, or building something lasting.
I care less about titles and more about impact.
I find joy in helping others succeed, even if I’m not in the spotlight.
I’m curious about what I can learn or explore in this next season.
Total Score (5–25): ______
Results
Mostly First Curve (20+ in Part 1, low in Part 2):
You’re still fueled by achievement and climbing. This energy can still fuel you—but notice if it no longer brings the same satisfaction, and consider where meaning might be shifting. Purpose may be asking you to prepare for what’s next.
Tips to explore this season:
Check in with your values: Write down your top 3 values today. Do your current goals reflect them, or are they tied more to external expectations?
Experiment with mentoring: Share one piece of hard-earned wisdom with a colleague or peer. Notice how it feels to guide rather than just perform.
Balance doing with reflecting: Try setting aside even 15 minutes a week to journal about what energizes you now versus five years ago.
Say yes to curiosity: Take on one project, class, or activity that stretches you in a new way—not because it advances your status, but because it sparks interest.
Mostly Second Curve (20+ in Part 2, lower in Part 1):
You’re leaning into wisdom, legacy, and contribution. This is a season of teaching, mentoring, and creating meaning beyond titles.
Tips to strengthen this season:
Invest in mentorship: Be intentional about sharing knowledge—whether through formal mentoring or informal conversations.
Capture your wisdom: Start a journal, podcast, or blog to record lessons you’d like others to carry forward.
Prioritize joy projects: Say yes to things that feel fulfilling, even if they’re not “productive” in the traditional sense.
Build legacy habits: Identify one small ritual (weekly reflection, monthly letter to a mentee, yearly service project) that contributes to your longer-term impact.
Balanced / Transition Zone (scores close in both):
You’re standing on the bridge between curves. This can feel disorienting—but it’s also fertile ground. Reflection and small aligned actions will help your purpose move with you.
Tips to navigate this season:
Name what you’re releasing: Write down 2–3 things from your first curve (roles, mindsets, habits) that no longer serve you.
Map your second curve vision: Sketch out what you’d like to learn, share, and leave behind in this next season.
Seek reflection partners: Talk with a coach, mentor, or peer who has navigated transition—let their perspective normalize your process.
Experiment in small doses: Pilot a new habit, role, or project on a small scale—treat it as exploration rather than commitment.
Reflection Prompt
If I’m honest, what season am I in right now?
What is one small step I can take this month to honor that season?
Affirmation
My worth isn’t in what I’ve done, but in the meaning I carry forward.
Inspired by Arthur Brooks’ book Strength to Strength. This resource adapts the concept of the ‘second curve’ through my own coaching lens. For the full framework, I recommend reading the book.
