Tuesday, November 05, 2013

Some career tips

Five Tips for Embracing Thorns on Your Journey To Success
 

Different is GOOD. Don't shy away from new and different experiences, opportunities, and challenges. If you can learn something from it, it can't be all that bad. And if it adds to the unique value proposition that is you, it won't be a mistake. I often tell folks that even if they find out that they hate a new assignment, at least they've gained invaluable insight about themselves. By the way, being different is a plus in most every instance - this is what true diversity is all about.

Difficulty yields GROWTH. We only grow if we stretch ourselves. This is true physically, emotionally and mentally. If we don't try, exert and challenge ourselves, we will never realize our fullest potential. This doesn't mean we must be stressed all the time - we all know that's not healthy. We all need downtime to recover and rejuvenate. So, don't avoid something because it's hard. Move forward - you'll figure out a way through it (or around it!).

Failing is LEARNING. Some of your best experiences and development will come from failing. In fact, it's better than OK - you'll likely learn the most about yourself from failing. And failing doesn't mean that you are a failure. It will allow you to figure out the difference between being the best (which is impossible all the time) and being your best (which is much more possible and actually leads to true happiness and success).

LEAN ON others. Life is about people - it is about the relationships you create, develop, and grow. This is true everywhere. Your journey is not one that you must go alone. You will gain much from the support of others and will have opportunities to support others yourself. In fact, many of life's greatest joys come from this. Surround yourself with people who make you better and don't tear you down.

IT IS all about YOU (not them). I often get asked if I've ever encountered discrimination, severe criticisms, bullying and other hurtful behaviors. The answer is, of course, yes - not only when I was younger but also in today's world. You will run into people who will put you down, call you out in a negative light (for whatever reason, and sometimes that reason won't be evident) and work to derail you. Don't worry about them and their success, focus on yours. This is the proverbial: "Life is 10 percent what happens to you and 90 percent how you react to it." You can't control how those around you behave, but you absolutely have ownership of every choice you make.

Ultimately, the path you forge is your own. No one can find it for you, just as no one can live it for you. But I hope my thoughts are helpful as you create your own way. And remember: there's no question that choosing a path that includes STEM will be riddled with thorns, but each one you encounter will make you stronger and more resilient. After all, "every rose has its thorns."

Original source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/anne-chow/five-tips-for-tech-career-success_b_3679070.html