“I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career.
I’ve lost almost 300 games.
26 times, I have been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed.
I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life.
And that is why I succeed.”
– Michael Jordan
Most people spend their lives without reaching even 1% of their potential. And then there are people like Michael Jordan. If you’re wondering what makes successful people different from others, it comes down to EFFORT. Continuous effort, not giving up, is what makes them stand out from the crowd.
There is no magic mantra that will guide you to success. Your true friends in a career journey are hard work and the resilience to keep going on even after countless setbacks. Your 20s are a period of growth and career development. It’s a time to explore new opportunities and step up to new challenges.
Here are 5 career mistakes to avoid when you are starting your career journey:
- Don’t focus on what makes you happy: One of the first mistakes you can make when choosing a career is trying to pursue something that brings you joy. Feeling confused? Let’s change the perspective to understand this. There’s nothing wrong with doing something that makes you happy. But when you choose a career, focus on what you are good at. For instance, playing a musical instrument might bring you happiness, however, you may be great with numbers. So, choosing a career where your numerical and analytical abilities are utilized will pave the way for long-term success. It’s essential to find that sweet spot where you pursue something you enjoy and are also good at.
- Believe you have more than one career choice: Thinking that you can have only one career throughout your life is a myth. Believing you only have one choice can hinder you down the road. It is wise to have the flexibility to change careers as your choices and circumstances may change. Considering today’s turbulent times, a fallback career option is important to consider. Having more than one career option is the new normal today. A doctor can also be a model, a model can also be an archeologist. It is no longer considered inappropriate to have varied interests as far as career choices are concerned.
- Overcome a lack of networking: Scores of people lost their jobs during the pandemic. Getting a new job in this scenario is beyond difficult. It is even more difficult for new graduates to find a job without contacts and proper networking. Hence, having a strong network of professionals is highly recommended. Creating a profile on LinkedIn and sending personalized messages to experts for self-growth and development are good ways to amplify your network. These connections may be really helpful when you need them. They may help you with advice, or give referrals that will increase your credibility, and help you get a job. Networking helps you prepare for future opportunities. Another method to increase your network is preparing an elevator pitch – a brief introduction about your qualifications, professional experience (if any), and future goals. How you communicate with other professionals tells them a lot about who you are. While creating an elevator pitch, try to be crisp, clear, and confident.
- Don’t put off learning about investing: Your 20s are the best time for you to invest. You must have heard people complain about having empty wallets at the end of the month. This happens because they go over the limit with expenses. Many first-time employees commit the mistake of spending their salaries on parties and unnecessary purchases. There’s nothing wrong with having some fun, but spending a major chunk of your income on leisure is not the right way to go. Financial experts swear by the 50-30-20 rule wherein 50% of your income is spent on needs, 30% on wants, and the remaining 20% is invested. In this way, your expenses will remain in check and you will stay within your budget, a habit that is best learned early.
- Shake off the fear of making mistakes: Contrary to popular belief, making mistakes in your 20s can be a good thing. It shows that you’re open to trying out new things. Overcoming that anxiety you feel at work worrying about what will happen if you make any mistakes, are all normal in your first job. But if you’re able to overcome this fear and learn from mistakes, it will open up a plethora of new possibilities for you. It’s completely okay to make mistakes, as long as you grow from it. Many successful people failed at the beginning of their careers, but they kept going and eventually climbed the ladder to success. As the saying goes, “a knight in shining armour is a man who has never had his metal truly tested.”
We all make mistakes. What’s important is to reflect on what you’ve learned from these mistakes. When you learn from bad experiences, you become more careful in the future. Remember, nothing can be achieved without overcoming challenges, especially a successful career. As someone who is just starting their career, understand that challenges are a normal part of the journey. How you react to those hurdles makes all the difference.
On your way to a successful career, allow LaunchMyCareer to be your career buddy. Our career experts will guide you on the path to self-discovery, enabling you to walk ahead with confidence and clarity. Make an appointment with a career counsellor today.
