Lin Zhou, a staff member of the Development and Reform Commission of a small northern city, was involved in factional disputes due to the declaration of key projects. The plan was shelved, his boss gave him a cold shoulder, and his colleagues ostracized him. He encountered heavy losses when he first entered the officialdom. However, he recognized that "officialdom is like a chess game", put away his sharp edge and accumulated experience.
He used grassroots surveys to collect data on people's livelihood, relied on his professionalism to resolve land acquisition conflicts, relied on information gaps to compete for support funds, and skillfully balanced interests when faced with pressure from superiors. From the county town to the city, from section clerk to department head, every step of his promotion was hidden in document review and wine tasting. He also experienced allies defecting and opponents assisting.
Lin Zhou gradually realized that "step by step" in official career is not only for personal future, but also for the benefit of the people in power. When greater opportunities and crises come, he needs to persevere and adapt to find his own career path.
