In service of the long game

A good starting point for the long game of any endeavor is to identify who it is that you want to spend your life serving.

What change do they hope to make in their lives?

What promise can you make to them when they experience your service?

What beliefs do they have?

Continue to become an expert in your trade and also the expert on the story and psychology of the people you serve.

Knowing this asap makes many decisions later more clear.