Perspective
After a few days of jumping back on the blogging band wagon, I ran across this fabulous article: How to Get a Job That’s Way Beyond Your Experience by Penelope Trunk @ Brazen Careerist. Immediately, I thought to myself - been there, done that. Got the battle scars to prove it. LOL Then I paused to truly reflect.
One year ago, I made one of the best decisions of my career, but it was also one of the worst. If that makes any sense.
I saw what I wanted and went after it. Although I knew I wasn’t ready for the responsibility, I wasn’t afraid to take the risk. As a result, I advanced my career into new territory, increased my salary by nearly 20%, gained substantial experience, developed new skills, became more self aware of my strengths and weaknesses, and turned some of those weaknesses into new strengths.
All in one year.
However, the last six months of that year involved one of my worst career experiences ever. It’s all behind me now, but the experience made me a better person. And for that, I’m thankful.
As I was going through it, I consulted with another mentor whom I trust and respect. Not only did he introduce me to my current boss, but he also gave me perspective about my old boss. He said “the most valuable career experience I’ve ever had was when I worked for someone who expected me to do more than I thought I could, but never asked me to do more than I was capable of.”
They say hindsight is 20/20. I finally understand what he meant.
~*~*~*~*~*~Work to achieve, not to acquire.
And as always, BE FABULOUS!
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So are you saying that one day I’ll thank my boss for asking me to do the impossible with next to nothing in a time frame that would make the roadrunner think twice, while fixing everything from the crack of dawn to broken hearts? But I do want to say things have gotten better at work, I must admit.
I didn’t know you could fix broken hearts. Man, you should be making millions! LOL [-SM]
Oh and next month can you give away a prize?? I was thinking maybe a 6 month subscription to living at your home rent free!! Maybe the random number generator will land on 6 for the 6th person to comment on your blog..hint…hint. That would be a great way for someone to get out of debt quickly!! LOL
Great idea! I was thinking a better prize would be dinner on YOU.
[-SM]
I have been reflecting on Penelope’s post lately as well - as a matter of fact I’m planning an article on this topic myself. It’s amazing how much you can learn when you bite of a bit more than you think you can chew. With a little experience, opportunities just open - five years ago I never would have thought I would be where I am now.
Amen! to your ‘hindsight’ comment. I don’t think you get to appreciate the value of learning from a bad leader or situation until it’s behind you.
The experience felt like pure hell, but I don’t regret it. I now view every work related experience (good or bad) as an opportunity to prepare me for the next level. [-SM]
This is really eerie…for a while now I was contemplating on vying for this job that is about two levels above where I am now. And then I come across this post…divine intervention or a push in the right direction… either way, I’ll take it.
In any case, the information was very helpful.
Go for it! Push the envelope and roll with the punches. I admire people who are not afraid to step out of their comfort zone. [-SM]