Ep #56: 5 Lessons to My Younger Self

I recently gave a presentation to a group of women in the early stages of their careers, who asked me to share my best advice on what I’ve learnt throughout the journey of my own career. I’ve put a lot of thought into this question, and today I run through the five lessons I would share with my younger self, in the hopes it could help change your career trajectory for the better.

We know that in any area of life, confidence is key. I believe there are a number of skills we need to develop in order to grow this and begin to show up more confidently. Building confidence is a process that takes time, and I discuss what I’ve found to be crucial in cultivating self-belief. I talk about how factors such as gender, ethnicity and orientation can add layers of difficulty, and how you can work to overcome them, no matter your circumstance.

There’s no sugarcoating it - consistency can be boring as hell. However, while it might not be the most glamorous aspect of career growth, I believe it is the fastest way to success. Consistent effort and dedication are what distinguish the good from the great, and I share my thoughts on how doing the grunt work and focusing on the day-to-day grind can be a real differentiator for people in the job market.

Over the years, I’ve learnt the value and significance of having a dynamic support system. Surrounding yourself with peers, mentors and advocates who challenge and uplift you can lead to tremendous personal and professional growth. While self-motivation is important, I discuss how having external accountability can push you to excel beyond your comfort zone.

I’m a huge believer in education and am constantly investing in myself for my personal and professional growth. While I’ve leaned heavily into traditional education, I recognise there is no one right way to develop our skills. A combination of different learning methods tailored to your career goals can yield exceptional results. However you decide to do it, I encourage you to know that you are your greatest asset, back yourself fully and get to making a plan.

Bad days and challenging experiences in the workplace are painful, yet can be invaluable teachers. While nobody hopes for hardship, it inevitably arises, and I reflect on my own journey of weathering storms throughout my career. I share my advice on how to view trials as catalysts for growth, and how these moments shape your character, refine your values, and enable you to thrive in the face of adversity.

If you’re in the early days of your career and looking to build yourself a strong foundation, this episode is for you. I encourage you to take hold of the lessons I’ve learnt and apply them to your own life, knowing you’ll start to see the beginnings of a fulfilling career that you truly love.