If you could go back in time and tell your younger self anything, it would probably be some of the advice in today’s article. We’re going over the top career advice you’ll wish you heard sooner. Don’t sweat it too much, though: you can put these tips into action right away. It’s never too late to get back on the right track.
Don’t Let Anyone Pick Your Field for You
You’ll always hear people trying to guess which fields are the best to get into right now. “This sector is booming right now,” or “get out of this field, it’s dying” are common among career chats. However, don’t let people’s opinions steer you into a career you think you’d hate. Likewise, don’t be scared off from a career path you’d love just because it’s unfashionable.
You’re living for yourself, and no one else. Maybe you want to pursue a career in the arts, but your family thinks that’s not a good idea? Don’t let their opinions shape your life. Pursue what you love, and try your hardest. Would you rather be rich and miserable or broke and happy? Hopefully, it doesn’t come to that binary, but, if it does, we know what we’d pick.
Take Responsibility for Your Mistakes
When you mess up, own it. Don’t try to shunt the blame. Don’t try to make excuses. Own your mistakes, apologize, and take steps to do better next time.
No one likes a liar, but honest mistakes can be forgiven. So, fess up and take the loss, then move on to do better next time.
Sell Yourself
Confidence is priceless. You know your successes as well as you know your weaknesses. Play up what makes you great, but be honest about where you’re lacking.
People appreciate confidence, especially when it’s tempered with honesty. If you can say “I’m great at this thing, but I need to shore up this area,” it lends you credibility, as you’re being forthcoming about yourself.
Measure Success by Your Own Life, Not Others’
If you’re holding yourself up to someone else’s life, you’re going to make yourself miserable. Success can be measured more accurately on an individual basis. Are you happy? Is your job rewarding? Are you advancing in your career? These are the important questions.
Remember: no one can define success but you. When you live your life for yourself, not for others, you’re freed from the anxiety of keeping up with the neighbors. You’re the author of this story: don’t let anyone else tell you how to measure your success.
