Lessons Learned Along The Way
April 19, 2017
By Brian Maynor
“If only I knew then what I know now.”
While we may not be able to go back and give advice to our younger selves so we can make different choices, it is possible to give advice to others who may be younger or just have less experience to help them make decisions.
This is the cornerstone of mentorship, but you don’t have to be a mentor to offer advice and wisdom from lessons learned. We all, hopefully, learn lessons during our career paths that have aided and guided us moving forward, and I feel too many of us keep those stories to ourselves.
After conducting a bit of research, here are a few of my favorite pearls of wisdom that it’s never too late to hear:
1. There’s no time to waste on a job you hate. Whether it was a temporary job you took that has lasted years, or your current job if you hate what you’re doing it’s time to move on. Of course that means finding a new job, but if that step isn’t feasible for you in the present moment there are ways to use the situation to your benefit.
2. Never stop learning. Even if you’re stuck in a job you hate, use the time to learn as much as you possibly can. By developing your professional skill set, industry knowledge and planning your next steps you will be in a better position to capitalize on opportunities as they appear. Plus it will make you feel less frustrated, restless and resentful.
3. Work to live. Professional success takes work, focus and dedication, but it shouldn’t consume every waking moment. Life happens outside of work. This is important to remember, because while work may be a huge part of your life, it should never be your entire life. The world is worth exploring and experiencing, so don’t give into the temptation to work through the holidays or let your vacation time go unused.
4. Success is not an individual sport. No one succeeds alone. It takes the right team working together, and sometimes that means replacing members. Teams can be either formal or informal, but the important thing is surrounding yourself with positive, energetic and engaged people will only work to make your team better and more effective. Remember teams are not permanent. It may not be pleasant, but sometimes it is necessary to set aside personal attachments and replace team members to maintain the effectiveness of the team.
5. Timing is everything. It’s hard to be patient and wait for the right time to present your ideas, pursue your dreams or take a risk, especially since we have no control over timing. Don’t let this frustrate or terminate your goals or ideas. Instead learn to accept the fact that this element of success is out of your hands, but remain vigilant and prepared for when the time comes.
It’s never too late to make adjustments, corrections or even departures from your current career if it’s not fulfilling or rewarding at a personal level. The power of the paycheck is undeniable, but you should never let it control your decisions.
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I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.
About Brian Maynor
Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.
