Exploring the life of Sugawara no Michizane, this episode illuminates how unexpected career shifts, akin to his relegation and later vindication, mirror today’s professional challenges. Embracing the Theory of Planned Happenstance, we uncover the value in unforeseen opportunities, advocating for resilience and adaptability in navigating career trajectories, and encouraging leaders to support their teams through change, drawing parallels with historical lessons for modern career development.