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What are some important experiences or lessons you've learned from your own careers that could be helpful for others to know?
What specific skills or knowledge have those experiences taught you? Have they shaped you into the person you are today, and how? This can be a wide range of experiences/lessons such as learning how to balance work and life or how to overcome setbacks. I am currently planning on going into the medical field, and I would like to know your own valuable lessons that you've gained throughout your life/career to help guide me through my career path.
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8 answers
Updated
Gary’s Answer
Hello!
Terrific inquiry! There's a wealth of responses, but I'll contribute just a handful of my own, and it looks like you've already received some fantastic input.
Firstly, I'd recommend continuously expanding your knowledge, even if it's for personal growth and not directly tied to your profession. Additionally, take charge of your own career path, rather than relying on your manager or employer to guide you. Lastly, don't hesitate to make a change if you find yourself growing weary of your current career. I personally switched careers at 56, and I couldn't be happier with my decision. Best of luck!
Terrific inquiry! There's a wealth of responses, but I'll contribute just a handful of my own, and it looks like you've already received some fantastic input.
Firstly, I'd recommend continuously expanding your knowledge, even if it's for personal growth and not directly tied to your profession. Additionally, take charge of your own career path, rather than relying on your manager or employer to guide you. Lastly, don't hesitate to make a change if you find yourself growing weary of your current career. I personally switched careers at 56, and I couldn't be happier with my decision. Best of luck!
Thank you, Gary for the advice.
Brenda
Updated
Allen’s Answer
I have experience in safety and security at hotel level and university levels. I have a background in environmental health management. I do data analysis for companies and communities.
Thanks, Allen! That sounds very interesting!
Brenda
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Brenda,
I did law enforcement for 25 years, and then worked as a job placement counselor in the workforce office for another 10. . .
1. When you are working with or for people (patients, co-workers, management, etc), every day that you go to work, it's a "given" you will encounter a "jerk." It's also a given that you will encounter a kind, gentle soul. It's the one that you choose to "take home with you" that makes all the difference in the world as to what kind of day you are going to have. Don't let the "jerks" get inside your head!
2. When you have power over another person, and choose to NOT exercise that authority, it is a greater exercise of power than actually using it. Explained: It is more powerful to be able to arrest someone, but choose to not arrest them, then to actually make the arrest. (or discipline a subordinate, for example. . . )
3. There are no guarantees in life. ALWAYS keep your resume fresh. Stay current in your training and education. Be ready to go. Periodically check to see what other jobs are paying, and what's out there. Do NOT "follow" a supervisor to another job, just because y'all get along. Too many times I've seen it happen where that supervisor then quits the new job, and you are on your own.
4. Master the art of public speaking. Inability to do so held me back professionally.
5. Do not run from things you cannot do. Meet your challenges head-on. Become the best you can be. I was weak in airfield driving. (I worked at the airport.) I pushed myself to learn it, and soon became tasked with training all new officers on the airfield!
6. Treat everyone the way you want your grandmother to be treated.
7. Try to understand different cultures. For example, even though it might be obvious that the wife is the family decision-maker, perhaps you should still address your comments to the husband. (something you can learn by waiting tables!)
8. Take control. If you are giving news to a family after surgery, for example, and they are all talking, don't shout over them. Simply stop talking. They'll figure it out! When you are "in charge," BE in charge.
9. don't be too quick to accept, or turn down, an opportunity. If someone unexpectedly offers you a position, simply express interest, tell them you want to think about it, and ask if you can get back to them in a day or two? Be appreciative, sound excited, but still give it a proper evaluation.
I'm sure there are many more, but those are the ones that come to mind.
good question!
I did law enforcement for 25 years, and then worked as a job placement counselor in the workforce office for another 10. . .
1. When you are working with or for people (patients, co-workers, management, etc), every day that you go to work, it's a "given" you will encounter a "jerk." It's also a given that you will encounter a kind, gentle soul. It's the one that you choose to "take home with you" that makes all the difference in the world as to what kind of day you are going to have. Don't let the "jerks" get inside your head!
2. When you have power over another person, and choose to NOT exercise that authority, it is a greater exercise of power than actually using it. Explained: It is more powerful to be able to arrest someone, but choose to not arrest them, then to actually make the arrest. (or discipline a subordinate, for example. . . )
3. There are no guarantees in life. ALWAYS keep your resume fresh. Stay current in your training and education. Be ready to go. Periodically check to see what other jobs are paying, and what's out there. Do NOT "follow" a supervisor to another job, just because y'all get along. Too many times I've seen it happen where that supervisor then quits the new job, and you are on your own.
4. Master the art of public speaking. Inability to do so held me back professionally.
5. Do not run from things you cannot do. Meet your challenges head-on. Become the best you can be. I was weak in airfield driving. (I worked at the airport.) I pushed myself to learn it, and soon became tasked with training all new officers on the airfield!
6. Treat everyone the way you want your grandmother to be treated.
7. Try to understand different cultures. For example, even though it might be obvious that the wife is the family decision-maker, perhaps you should still address your comments to the husband. (something you can learn by waiting tables!)
8. Take control. If you are giving news to a family after surgery, for example, and they are all talking, don't shout over them. Simply stop talking. They'll figure it out! When you are "in charge," BE in charge.
9. don't be too quick to accept, or turn down, an opportunity. If someone unexpectedly offers you a position, simply express interest, tell them you want to think about it, and ask if you can get back to them in a day or two? Be appreciative, sound excited, but still give it a proper evaluation.
I'm sure there are many more, but those are the ones that come to mind.
good question!
Loved reading this, thanks!
Brenda
Mustabsheera Vengus
GMBPsS 🎓 | Aspiring Psychologist | Behavior Therapist | Counselor | Mentor
38
Answers
Updated
Mustabsheera’s Answer
Embrace a Growth Mindset: Adopt a mindset of continuous learning and improvement. Be open to new experiences, seek feedback, and actively pursue opportunities for growth and development. Embracing a growth mindset can help you adapt to changes, overcome challenges, and stay motivated throughout your career.
Build a Diverse Skill Set: In today's rapidly evolving job market, having a diverse skill set is crucial. Develop a mix of technical, soft, and transferable skills that can be valuable across various industries. This versatility will make you adaptable and increase your marketability.
Network and Build Relationships: Building a strong professional network can open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship. Actively engage in networking events, join professional organizations, and connect with individuals in your field. Cultivating relationships can provide support, advice, and potential career advancements.
Embrace Failure and Learn from Setbacks: Failure and setbacks are inevitable in any career. Instead of being discouraged, view them as opportunities for growth and learning. Analyze your failures, understand the lessons they offer, and use them as stepping stones for future success.
Seek Mentors and Be a Mentor: Mentors can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights based on their experiences. Seek out mentors who can help you navigate your career path and offer advice. Additionally, consider becoming a mentor yourself to give back and contribute to the growth of others.
Emphasize Effective Communication: Strong communication skills are essential in any profession. Develop the ability to express your ideas clearly, listen actively, and collaborate effectively with colleagues and clients. Effective communication fosters understanding, builds relationships, and enhances your professional reputation.
Maintain a Work-Life Balance: Strive for a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout and maintain overall well-being. Prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and make time for hobbies, relationships, and activities outside of work. Balancing personal and professional responsibilities is vital for long-term career satisfaction.
Embrace Change and Adaptability: In today's rapidly changing world, adaptability is key. Embrace change, be flexible, and develop the ability to learn and excel in new situations. Embracing change allows you to seize opportunities, stay relevant, and thrive in dynamic environments.
Take Calculated Risks: Don't be afraid to take calculated risks in your career. Evaluate potential rewards and consequences, weigh the pros and cons, and step outside your comfort zone when appropriate. Taking risks can lead to new opportunities, personal growth, and professional advancement.
Stay Curious and Maintain a Passion for Learning: Cultivate curiosity and a genuine passion for learning. Stay curious about new technologies, industry trends, and emerging opportunities. Continuously seek out learning experiences to stay ahead in your field and remain intellectually engaged.
Build a Diverse Skill Set: In today's rapidly evolving job market, having a diverse skill set is crucial. Develop a mix of technical, soft, and transferable skills that can be valuable across various industries. This versatility will make you adaptable and increase your marketability.
Network and Build Relationships: Building a strong professional network can open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship. Actively engage in networking events, join professional organizations, and connect with individuals in your field. Cultivating relationships can provide support, advice, and potential career advancements.
Embrace Failure and Learn from Setbacks: Failure and setbacks are inevitable in any career. Instead of being discouraged, view them as opportunities for growth and learning. Analyze your failures, understand the lessons they offer, and use them as stepping stones for future success.
Seek Mentors and Be a Mentor: Mentors can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights based on their experiences. Seek out mentors who can help you navigate your career path and offer advice. Additionally, consider becoming a mentor yourself to give back and contribute to the growth of others.
Emphasize Effective Communication: Strong communication skills are essential in any profession. Develop the ability to express your ideas clearly, listen actively, and collaborate effectively with colleagues and clients. Effective communication fosters understanding, builds relationships, and enhances your professional reputation.
Maintain a Work-Life Balance: Strive for a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout and maintain overall well-being. Prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and make time for hobbies, relationships, and activities outside of work. Balancing personal and professional responsibilities is vital for long-term career satisfaction.
Embrace Change and Adaptability: In today's rapidly changing world, adaptability is key. Embrace change, be flexible, and develop the ability to learn and excel in new situations. Embracing change allows you to seize opportunities, stay relevant, and thrive in dynamic environments.
Take Calculated Risks: Don't be afraid to take calculated risks in your career. Evaluate potential rewards and consequences, weigh the pros and cons, and step outside your comfort zone when appropriate. Taking risks can lead to new opportunities, personal growth, and professional advancement.
Stay Curious and Maintain a Passion for Learning: Cultivate curiosity and a genuine passion for learning. Stay curious about new technologies, industry trends, and emerging opportunities. Continuously seek out learning experiences to stay ahead in your field and remain intellectually engaged.
Thank you for the advice, Mustabsheera.
Brenda
Updated
Patricia R.’s Answer
Brenda,
You've asked a question that requires deep thinking and concise analysis. It's tough!
An experiences that shaped me the most was a betrayal. I'd been at a new job for about a year when I was asked to join my office colleague and our direct supervisor in the boss's office. My supervisor had taken me aside only moments earlier to give me a "heads up" about the meeting and not much about the topic.
For over an hour, the woman with whom I shared and office read from a full-page list of all the traits, behaviors, and comments she had an issue with – about me! I was mortified! Humiliated! Embarrassed! Ashamed!
Not once did I rebut anything she said – I was afraid that if I opened my mouth to reply, I would collapse into a puddle of saltwater tears.
How could I tell you the ways in which that affected me? It's always been my tendency to try to find something good in all the bad things around me. It took me a while, but good did come from that belittling. I learned to imagine how I sounded to someone who was listening – Was I judgmental? Was *I* listening to them? Did I speak as objectively I could, or did I fill the presentation with my own opinions?
My self-worth was terribly wounded that day, but I found my way out of the quagmire.
It's been a long journey, and very difficult at times, but well worth it. I'm now confident in who I am, what I know, and what my skills are. I don't have a formal teaching job now – I'm retired – but I live among people who grew up and lived most of their lives without the technology we have now, so I help them set up their smart phones, smart TVs, and smart tablets. I do tech troubleshooting for them, too, as well as change their watch batteries when they stop telling time.
I have a good life. Yes, there are things I'd like to change, but I cannot. What I can do is to eliminate those things in my life that are "toxic" and accept, or even embrace, the things that I then change more to my liking.
More than anything, though, I want to continue to learn whatever I can, for as long as I can; and be among people who have the same kind of attitude.
You've asked a question that requires deep thinking and concise analysis. It's tough!
An experiences that shaped me the most was a betrayal. I'd been at a new job for about a year when I was asked to join my office colleague and our direct supervisor in the boss's office. My supervisor had taken me aside only moments earlier to give me a "heads up" about the meeting and not much about the topic.
For over an hour, the woman with whom I shared and office read from a full-page list of all the traits, behaviors, and comments she had an issue with – about me! I was mortified! Humiliated! Embarrassed! Ashamed!
Not once did I rebut anything she said – I was afraid that if I opened my mouth to reply, I would collapse into a puddle of saltwater tears.
How could I tell you the ways in which that affected me? It's always been my tendency to try to find something good in all the bad things around me. It took me a while, but good did come from that belittling. I learned to imagine how I sounded to someone who was listening – Was I judgmental? Was *I* listening to them? Did I speak as objectively I could, or did I fill the presentation with my own opinions?
My self-worth was terribly wounded that day, but I found my way out of the quagmire.
It's been a long journey, and very difficult at times, but well worth it. I'm now confident in who I am, what I know, and what my skills are. I don't have a formal teaching job now – I'm retired – but I live among people who grew up and lived most of their lives without the technology we have now, so I help them set up their smart phones, smart TVs, and smart tablets. I do tech troubleshooting for them, too, as well as change their watch batteries when they stop telling time.
I have a good life. Yes, there are things I'd like to change, but I cannot. What I can do is to eliminate those things in my life that are "toxic" and accept, or even embrace, the things that I then change more to my liking.
More than anything, though, I want to continue to learn whatever I can, for as long as I can; and be among people who have the same kind of attitude.
Thank you for sharing this personal experience, Patricia. I can only imagine how painful that betrayal must have been for you. Your ability to find a silver lining and transform that painful experience into personal growth is truly inspiring.
Brenda
Updated
Mrinalini’s Answer
Hello Brenda,
Great point! When you truly enjoy your work, tasks become much simpler to handle. No matter what kind of job you have, being content and passionate about it helps you overcome obstacles and remain steadfast even in the face of challenges. It's crucial to find joy in your work, or at the very least, approach it with a positive attitude and treat it with respect. After all, it's our livelihood and sustenance. In my experience, adopting this mindset has made me determined to always perform my tasks with honesty and positivity, focusing solely on the work at hand.
Wishing you all the best!
Great point! When you truly enjoy your work, tasks become much simpler to handle. No matter what kind of job you have, being content and passionate about it helps you overcome obstacles and remain steadfast even in the face of challenges. It's crucial to find joy in your work, or at the very least, approach it with a positive attitude and treat it with respect. After all, it's our livelihood and sustenance. In my experience, adopting this mindset has made me determined to always perform my tasks with honesty and positivity, focusing solely on the work at hand.
Wishing you all the best!
Mrinalini, thank you!
Brenda
Updated
Molly’s Answer
Brenda,
One recommendation that I would give for career advice is to have as many connections as possible. I know that knowing just one singular person can go a long way, especially in the career world. By making these friendships and relationships within your work station, it can go a long way when searching for a new career or position. Along with this, if you are still in school, making those connections with your professors can go FAR! Professors have had real world experience, and by making those relationships with your teachers, they can be great recommendations for future professions being applied for.
I hope this helped!
Molly H.
One recommendation that I would give for career advice is to have as many connections as possible. I know that knowing just one singular person can go a long way, especially in the career world. By making these friendships and relationships within your work station, it can go a long way when searching for a new career or position. Along with this, if you are still in school, making those connections with your professors can go FAR! Professors have had real world experience, and by making those relationships with your teachers, they can be great recommendations for future professions being applied for.
I hope this helped!
Molly H.
Thank you for the advice, Molly.
Brenda
Updated
Paul’s Answer
This is quite a profound question. I'll keep my response brief and simple. I believe the key lessons I've learned over time are to be patient with yourself and others, and to give everyone time to absorb information. Along with that, never stop learning. I aim to learn something new every day from various sources like people, processes, books, videos, our surroundings, animals, and nature. Stay curious and always be eager to learn more. Wishing you the best in all your pursuits!
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Brenda