Reflecting on my career journey… Right from the land of impossibilities, I traveled through the valleys, my car almost ran on the water; I climbed mount Everest, distressed and almost fell over, but I ‘never say never’… until I arrived at the new horizon and became simpler and smarter. I tell you... It was such an adventurous ride; a few will have this privilege in a lifetime career.
Much more than remembering the challenges, achievements, celebrations, failures, and disappointments along the way; I feel the necessity to filter my world-view and highlight important learning points... Probably to practically re-affirm some basic principles (of life) and create a reference for future endeavors.
Thus, I came up with the following “Be” paths to happiness in the workplace :
Path 1 Be strategic. Let your work speak for you; it pays than speaking for yourself. Being strategic requires that you create the right 'impression'.
Path 2 Be sensitive to your environment. Much is being said without words; don't be a passive employee.
Path 3 Be mindful of your encounter with people. Everyone you encountered takes a portion of you everywhere they go. Besides, all actions are seeds.
Path 4 Be free to draw inspiration from the achievement of colleagues. However, be careful not to compete; ‘career competition’ is a drainer.
Path 5 Be a friend. Find and nourish friendship at work; it makes the job a lot easier.
Path 6 Be focused. You’ll likely meet some seemingly 'smart' colleagues; they’ll probably get all commendations for your job... But relax, in-the-long-run the 'smartness' usually don't last.
Path 7
Be self-aware. Do not lose your identity; know your personality (and temperament ), and ensure you approach your tasks from your natural area of strengths. It is good to work on your weakness but not at the expense of developing and exploring your strengths.
Path 8
Be ethical. Don't make a choice you can not tell close family members ( i.e son, daughter, spouse, parents) or publish online. When you are faced with the dilemma of choosing between two wrongs or two rights... Consider the potential risks and impacts, and be fair to all.
Path 9
Be 'reinvent-full'. Ensure one major career achievement every 3-4 years (at most). For example, take certifications, learn new skills, take a degree, change job environment, or change job-role... Just do something new. Reinvent yourself.
Path 10
Be simple. When the situation seems overwhelming... Simply take it “a day at a time”; as much as you can... ALWAYS maintain the right attitude.
Which of these paths can you relate with? You may want to add a few more... Please feel free to make comments.
Thank you for reading
Adebowale writes...