The Dads and Grads season is in full bloom!
It reminds me of all the advice I got when I graduated from college and jumped into the “work life”.
Like many, I heard the typical: “Work hard, be trustful, jump on new opportunities when they arise, and things will go well.”
It worked for me up to a certain point.
But what helped the most was a set of less conventional principles.
They weren’t all originating from one single source. It was more a combination of my first hands-on life experience and most influential reads. Here they are:
1. Business is tough. Know how to handle the ups and downs.
It’s ok – and desired – to set bold expectations if you want to win big. But it’s also dangerous if you’re not ready to manage the pain that goes with the down periods.
So make sure you focus on making the most of each day at work and cherish every small win. It will help you graciously approach the unavoidable downtimes.
2. You’ll fail often. But don’t be a Victim. Ever.
This one saved me more than once. I learned to take responsibility for everything that happened to me at work – and in my personal life.
It’s been hard at times – especially when I perceived some decisions or events as unfair. Yet, I never resorted to blaming or being a victim. Instead, I focused on shaping my reality and forging my destiny.
3. Don’t think everyone will like you. They don’t care, actually.
At first, I thought popularity was important. I had the mentality of a king and queen of the prom. What a waste of time and energy! The reality is that, while being liked may be comforting at times – it simply isn’t the point at work.
Instead, focus on what you fundamentally believe is best for the business. Accept that some people will look at you incredulously. Keep charging ahead.
4. Build meaning for yourself. Don’t wait for others to do it for you.
Some might argue that life has a meaning that is superior to what we, humans, can even comprehend. Let me respectfully disagree.
We, humans, invented that concept of meaning. And that’s great news! Instead of wishing that mother nature or others will bring you meaning on a silver plate, you can build it for yourself.
Once you understand this at work, even the smallest invention can have a meaning on its own and be a game-changer, as long as you are in control.
These four rules can be hard to apply, and I’ve struggled with these too. But, by keeping them top of mind, especially in rough times, you’ll progress towards meaningful outcomes better than the rest of the pack.