11 lessons from the first 11 years

Facebook kindly reminded me that it's been 11 years since I signed my first full-time job offer.

I still remember going to the FedEx in New York to print it, read it 100 times and signing my name on the dotted line then FAXING it back. Ha. DocuSign was nowhere to be found.

There is so much to be grateful for and what I've learned when I'm feeling this overwhelming sensation, it's best to pass it on. Here are 11 career lessons that I've learned over the last 11 years; there really are hundreds of lessons but here are the ones that keep coming back and are still relevant to me today.

1. When in doubt, say yes. I found all my jobs and promotions through serendipitous conversations, coffee's, random introductions and happy hours. Opportunity can look like a lot of things and it's usually far from what you expect.

(Photo: saying yes to a random meeting during my time at Macy's lead me to meeting the Satisfi Labs team and the rest is history! Also said yes to this stock photo opportunity during the project to save some $$$)

2. Misery is optional. There is always a way up or out if you're not satisfied with your role. Of course knowing the difference between being challenged and being miserable is important here. Once you know you are miserable, or you feel like your purpose and values don't align with your job, GET SEARCHING. No one else is looking out for your career but you so get into the driver's seat and go.

3. Never underestimate the value of social capital at work. Let's admit it, we are social beings and we work with other social beings. No matter the size of your company, people are people. Your reputation (are you trustworthy? do you keep your promises? do you take credit for other team members' work?), how you make others feel, how you collaborate, include others' perspectives, your communication style - it all matters. But it doesn't have to be a facade; make genuine connections and nurture relationships because at the end of the day people need to like working with you to get anything done.

(Photo: ever since my best friend shared this framework with me, it's been my guiding light in building relationships at work. You need all 3 sides to be solid to connect meaningfully with others.)

4. Consistency > Unpredictable highs and lows. Protect your energy at all costs. In my experience, consistency not only builds trust with your team, manager and leaders but also protects you from having to recover from burn out. Knowing earlier in your career how much you can take on will only make you a more dependable team member in the future.

5. There are no dumb questions but there sure are smart ones. I've learned that the smartest people I've come across don't know the answers but they are curious.

6. Always negotiate for more. More on your base salary, bonus, benefits, anything and everything. Ask for it or never know. You're worth it.

7. Gossip is a waste of time and is poison. That's it.

8. Important v. Urgent. This framework has kept me focused on my goals and away from 'busy work' that can not only derail you but burn you out.

9. Forge your own path. For most of my career, I was usually the first and only in every conference room. First Asian Woman to assume a role, youngest to reach a certain title, the only woman in an entire conference, the list goes on. I learned that not because I can't see it doesn't mean it can't be my path; I can be the representation I'm seeking for and more.

(Photo: presenting at the New York Times building - pinch me moment - and I was the youngest and only person of color there)

10. Good boss > good job. Every single time this piece of advice comes through for me and I've had the pleasure of working for incredible leaders since prioritizing this in looking for a role. Building your relationship with your direct manager is your first to-do in starting a new role and something to nurture continuously.

(Photo: Nicole Mason, my manager, coach, cheerleader, tough-love mentor and friend)

11. Last but not least, make friends at work. Yes, it can be 'just a job' or 'just your 9-5' but if you want to make the most of your 8 hours a day, friends make it all better. Let a few in, and you'll see how they can change your life forever.

Did any of those lessons resonate with you? Any that you would add to the list? Please drop a comment with your thoughts.

Now onto the next 11! Cheers!