This may sound a bit cruel.  This is reality though.

Why do people need an exit strategy from their current employment?

Here's why.  It's a simple game of numbers.  Count the number of colleagues around you in your same level/position.  For purposes of example, let's say there's 8.

Count the number of people above your level/position.  Let's say at 4 directly above you and 2 more at the next level.  Count the AVPs, count the VPs.  Count the boss herself (in this day and age, the boss would most likely be a female).

Total : say, 20 .

There you have it.  You have a 1 in 20 chance to rise to the top.

And that's only plain numbers.  Factor in favoritism, and internal corporate politicking.  You've just doubled the odds against you.  1 in 40 chance.

Here's another factor to consider.  Granting that you are the fortunate person who strikes that 1 in 40 chance able to hurdle your way to the top.  The next question to ask is this....

-What is your age?
-At what age do you see yourself inching closer to the top?

If you can't stand the numbers involved, you'd better prepare an exit strategy. 

Don't know where or how to start?  See a retirement strategist.