Sadly, too many of us embark on new careers out of College or University, step up to the plate, and because we really don’t know much about the game that we are playing, we take two wild swings at the ball leaving us with two strikes against us.
We might take on a heavy debt load too soon, expect too much out of our new employer, expect recruiters to beat a path to our door, or crumble in the face of adversity.
Last week, contributing writer for Forbes Magazine Mike Myatt provided young professionals – and the rest of us, for that matter – ten terrific tips on managing your career, and your life, in its early stages.
If you are about to graduate, or if you are starting a second career after struggling in your first, read these pointers very carefully. I wish such wisdom had been availed to me thirty years ago:
Graduation is a joyous time full of accolades and recognitions, serious reflection, and great anticipation. By all means, enjoy graduation – you worked hard to reach this point. That said, my advice is don’t get too caught up in the pomp and circumstance – real life is about to hit you in the face. In today’s column I’ll share 10 tips for jumpstarting your future as you enter the workforce.
Just as graduation releases you from one competitive world (academia), it also catapults you into another (the workforce). Moving from the security of university life to the insecurity of life as a job seeker in a down economy is well…daunting. Clearly, life isn’t all about your job, but getting that first job does make life a bit easier. Following are 10 things that every graduate should take to heart as they enter the workforce:
1. A Little Perspective Goes A Long Way – Regardless of outward appearances, no one escapes life without enduring tragedy, hardship, and ridicule. The truth is, life is messy and people get hurt. The difference between those who overcome challenges and those who succumb to them is largely one of attitude and perspective. Embrace challenges and setbacks as not just refining moments, but also as defining moments. Don’t fall prey to challenges; learn from them. Remember, the perception of failure through one lens can often be a springboard to success when viewed through a different filter.
3. Life Is All About The People – Relationships are the biggest asset you have. Your world will be greatly impacted by those whom you choose to include and exclude from your life. Be kind to others, but most importantly, be intentional in building into others. While some short-term success can built at the expense of others, or on the backs of others, any sustainable achievements are built on the success they have created for others. Think “selfless” as opposed to “selfish.” Family and friends are worth more than job titles. Life is about people – not things. The funny thing is, if you do right by people things will never be an issue.
Read 7 more tips by clicking here…
Do you have any other advice that you would like to provide?
Your comments and feedback are welcome.
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