A common complaint I hear in my business consulting is that your boss is the problem, and you could fix the business if you only had the opportunity. When I ask what you are doing to prepare for that role, I usually only hear frustration and a lack of specifics or an action plan. Having spent my career on both sides of the fence, I have found some important things that worked for me.
In my perspective, the key is to practice thinking like you are the manager, rather than a critic or a victim, in every project and professional role you find yourself in. In this context, you will find that your peers will see you as a positive force to follow, and your manager will appreciate the support and your insights, maybe even recommending you for the next available opening.
Of course, the first requirement is to get the education and tools you need to feel confident that you are ready, and have the mindset to be a leader in every role. This alone will improve your productivity and effectiveness in your current role, as well as give you a head start towards a future role, including a management role or starting your own company as an entrepreneur.
In any case, here are some additional key principles that I have learned and recommend:
