Are You a Passenger or a Driver?
In the journey of our careers, we often find ourselves either as passengers, feeling powerless and constrained, or as drivers, taking charge of our own destinies. This article debunks the misconception that we lack control over certain aspects of our professional lives and emphasizes the importance of seeking professional emancipation. It provides seven tips for those who aspire to become successful professionals and take ownership of their careers.
1. Recognize Yourself as a Business-of-One:
Understand that your career holds value and identify how to leverage it to your advantage. Take stock of your skills and determine how you can acquire valuable expertise that is in demand.
2. Negotiate and Gain an Advantage:
Engage in negotiations with employers to secure the best deal for yourself. Treat employers as customers and offer your services at a price that reflects the quality of your work. Remember, you work “with” an employer, not “for” them.
3. Focus on Excellence:
Prioritize doing things well over constantly pursuing novelty. Build expertise in specific areas and understand how you can address employers’ needs effectively. Identify your specialty as a business-of-one.
4. Collaborate with the Best:
Seek opportunities to work with individuals who are smarter than you. Look for companies that inspire admiration for their products or services, rather than merely attractive pay and benefits packages. Surround yourself with a professional tribe that can elevate your career.
5. Align with Employer Goals:
Shift your focus from your own needs and wants to understand the goals, needs, and business intentions of your partners. By exceeding their expectations, you provide more value and can expect greater rewards. Treat them as your customers and strive to meet their objectives.
6. Be Financially Prepared:
Secure your financial position by having enough savings to sustain yourself for a year without income. This financial security empowers you to make the best decisions for your business-of-one. Avoid staying in unfavorable situations solely for monetary reasons.
7. Embrace Experiences and Setbacks:
View setbacks and mistakes as opportunities for growth, rather than failures. Step out of your comfort zone, embrace fear, and continuously learn new things. Remember that taking control of your career requires overcoming obstacles and not worrying about others’ opinions.
By following these tips, you can develop positive habits that will empower you to become an ultra-successful professional. Take charge of your career today and discover the rewards of owning your professional journey. For further assistance, feel free to contact us at info@mentorforleaders.com.
