As you navigate your data career, it's essential to reflect on who you are, what you're good at, and what makes you happy. Individual contributors focus on honing their technical abilities and completing specific tasks, whereas managers manage team members, give support, and concentrate on strategic vision rather than technical details. The transition to management requires a different skillset and humanity. To determine which career path is right for you, consider your strengths and weaknesses, where you see yourself in 1, 5, and 10 years, and categorize these into individual contributor or manager roles. Be honest with yourself about how these fit together, as this will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and aspirations. Ultimately, self-awareness and reflection are key to recognizing your value as an employee and making choices that bring you joy and fulfillment in your data career.