My PMP® certification took 6 years of preparation; In 2006 I thought about getting certified and executed my plan in 2011. In 2012 & 2016, I got PgMP® and PfMP® certifications respectively. I was skeptical about the effectiveness of these certifications. Although I got PMP® certified in 2011, I have read PMBOK® several times since 2006. I started using the tools & techniques, the terminologies, artifacts and templates much before my certification. As a result, I saw my career soaring to new heights and I got promoted from Project Manager to Program Manager. My knowledge, my understanding, my ability to think through and think far and several other skills were advanced after I started practicing the knowledge I gained from PMBOK. It is not the certificate but the implementation of the knowledge gained through the process of certifications that have helped me move from Project Manager to Global Head of PMO. Furthermore, PMI through its local chapters have helped me build a network, market credibility, recognition and a sense of achievement. I strongly believe that PMI has been one of the greatest success factors towards my career growth.