The position of CEO is a lofty goal of many people. The position has great income, power, and prestige. It is not without its faults as it brings in incredible stress, 16 hour days, and a disconnect from friends and family. The following chart represents a stereotypical CEO of a Fortune 500 company.
| Primary Income | High Six Figure Salary with Bonuses |
| Secondary Income | Stocks & Bonds |
| Residence | Luxury Estate |
| Mortgage | Jumbo Conforming Loan |
| 2nd Mortgage | Home Improvement Loan |
| Primary Vehicle | Mercedes SLR |
| Secondary Vehicle | Luxury Motorhome |
| Other Transportation | Yacht, Private Airplane |
| Education | MBA Prestigious University |
| Training | Leadership Training |
| Phone | Palm Treo |
| Debt Ratio | 90% in Debt |
| Hours Worked/Week | 80-90 |
| Children | Two |
| Children’s School | Private Prestigious School |
| Dog | Bichon Frise |
| Sports | Golf, Yachting |
–
In the real world there are many perks and a few drawbacks to the position. The number one ingredient to achieving this position seems to be motivation and drive. The following links are day in the life stories of real CEO’s.
Stan O’Neal, Merrill Lynch CEO
While the CEO position is a lofty goal, consider the education requirement and the on the job time commitment as you formulate your career goal.
Tomorrow… The Power Politician