The 4 For 4

Top 4 Things I’ve Learned to Celebrate my 4th Workaversery

1.????Execution will always count twice.

Every innovative initiative or groundbreaking venture requires a “big picture” person, the one with the creative; the concept and vision.?But without execution, the best ideas are left to die.?Sometimes it isn’t even the most profound concept that creates the most impact, it is simply the one that is followed through on.?Execution always counts twice, if not three times.?

2.???It won’t always be smooth sailing; and that is fine.

If you’re like me, the term feedback has always held a negative connotation.?Feedback implies something isn’t going right. Feedback suggests there is room for improvement. Feedback means you aren’t where you need to be.?But what feedback also means, is that someone cares.?They care about your professional development, and they see a potential that you may not even see in yourself.?Embracing and even seeking feedback is not easy for everyone, but after all, a smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.

3.???Everyone needs some hype.?Don’t shy away from your energy if that’s you.

It can be tough to toe the line between “bringing your whole self to work” and presenting an idealized version of you in a professional setting.?We often fall victim to mask into a different character the moment we enter our offices.?For those who are extroverted, loud, and passionate, the corporate world can prove stifling.?But it doesn’t have to, and in fact, it shouldn’t.?Everyone needs some hype. They need the person calling out the small victories and celebrating the milestones.?You may be met with some eyerolls at first, but every team, every office, every company, deserves someone bringing the energy. If that’s you, lean into it.

4.? Everyone is just a person.?(Reductive, I know, but bear with me.)

The stranger on the other end of your cold call, the intimidating executive you are about to pitch to, the young new hire who is struggling to find their way; they are all just people.?They have lives outside of work same as you. They have miserable days, they have perfect days, they have interests and passions and hobbies and fears and insecurities and motivations and goals.?In all that you do, bring this awareness and perspective to the table first.?When you deliver feedback, receive feedback, in difficult discussions, times of praise, in every professional encounter, remember, we are all just people, even you.?Give yourself the same grace you would allow anyone else, especially in your most human of moments.