In this episode of Life of a CISO, Dr. Eric Cole challenges cybersecurity leaders to think beyond immediate threats and short-term fixes. Using the famous Mission Impossible phrase, “Your mission, if you choose to accept it,” he urges CISOs to define their long-term vision—both for their careers and for the cybersecurity landscape. While businesses like Google and Tesla plan 5 to 10 years ahead, many CISOs remain focused on putting out daily fires, failing to develop a strategic roadmap for their future.
Dr. Cole shares insights on the power of long-term goal-setting, emphasizing that most people overestimate what they can achieve in a year but underestimate what they can accomplish in a decade. He provides an actionable exercise: take 30 minutes, grab a pen and paper, and write down where you want to be in 10 years—your income, role, lifestyle, and aspirations. By shifting from reactive problem-solving to proactive future planning, CISOs can not only elevate their careers but also strengthen their influence within organizations. Tune in to this powerful episode and start shaping your cybersecurity destiny today.
In this episode:
- 1:00 – Introduction of Today’s Focus
- 2:00 – The Importance of a Mission
- 5:00 – Current vs. Future Cybersecurity Challenges
- 8:00 – Future Self-Visualization Exercise
- 10:00 – Overestimating Short-Term, Underestimating Long-Term
- 14:00 – Daily Actions that Align with Long-Term Goals
- 16:00 – The Power of Long-Term Thinking
- 19:00 – Common Struggles in Cybersecurity Leadership
- 23:00 – How Clarity Defines a CISO’s Success
- 25:00 – Leading with Purpose and Vision
