A lot of people look at the project manager title and see only the salary band, leadership tag and the sense of ownership that comes with it. What they often do not see is the stress, constant balancing act and responsibility that sits on the project manager’s shoulders every single day. In this Lounge Access video, Shoaib talks through the harsh truth about being a project manager for those who are thinking of entering the field or are wondering if it really fits their personality and goals.
Shoaib explains that a project manager is often caught between stakeholders, customers and the delivery team, trying to keep scope, schedule and budget in sync while dealing with risks and surprises. It can mean tough conversations, escalations, late nights and being the first person everyone looks at when something goes wrong. At the same time, he highlights that the role also gives a unique chance to see the bigger picture, influence outcomes and directly shape how products and services get delivered. This mix of strain and satisfaction is what many newcomers underestimate when they only hear the title, not the story behind it.
The conversation ties in well with the idea behind Lounge Access on PMCLounge.com, which is to move away from one size fits all advice about PMP and project management careers. Instead of selling a dream, Shoaib uses sessions like this to share honest perspectives so you can decide whether project management actually matches how you like to work, the kind of problems you enjoy solving and the responsibility you are ready to handle. If, after seeing the reality, you still feel drawn to the role, you are much more likely to build a satisfying and sustainable career as a project manager.
If you are currently exploring PMP, wondering about switching into project management or trying to understand where you fit in the project ecosystem, Lounge Access gives you a way to talk through your questions directly with Shoaib. You can review your background, your current role and your long term plans, and then decide your next steps with more clarity instead of relying only on generic internet advice. To learn more and to book a slot, visit the Lounge Access page.
