5 Things I Wish Someone Had Told Me at the Beginning of My Career - Part 1

If you are still seeking out your professional mentor, allow me to step in with some guidance for those of you starting out on your journey as an ecopreneur. Here’s the advice I wish I had received when I was in your shoes:

1. Remember what Dr. Seuss said, “Why fit in when you were born to STAND OUT?”?

Although albeit this quote comes from a children’s book author (and a highly-revered one at that), the sentiment holds true for all ages. Embrace the qualities inherent to you, and do not shy away from your true self.?

I know, it can be scary to open up and be yourself, but you might be surprised by the quality and alignment of individuals you can attract by doing so. You may just find your next mentor, co-founder, partner, or even yourself.?

2. Be willing to depart from society’s expectations for what your professional career path should look like.

In college, many of my peers as a Government & Economics major were pursuing internships in finance — from private equity to wealth management and beyond. I initially followed suit but quickly realized my passions lay elsewhere.?

I wish I had accepted these truths sooner so I could have shed the guilt for leaving internships I wasn’t interested in to catch UN meetings and conferences in the social sector, which would ultimately be far more beneficial to me in the long run.

3. Feel free to express yourself with equal parts kindness and candor.?

It’s okay to voice your perspective, especially when you’re in a room of people with more extensive experience who may look down on you due to your age, gender, or background.

Exude confidence and be open to dialogue and contrasting perspectives, but be direct and don’t waver. It saves time and energy to state your truth rather than beating around the bush or backtracking.

4. As an aspiring founder, fight the urge to jump at the first investment opportunity that comes your way — IF it comes with non-negotiable strings attached.

Early on, I was offered generous funding and a salary from a funder that wanted me to grow SOA into a youth lobbying enterprise. Despite the allure of financial stability, I stayed true to the vision I had for the organization and graciously declined.?

Trust that someone will see and embrace your vision and continue soldiering on in pursuit of a better fit.?

5. Aligned with that, and lastly, ONLY do business with people YOU respect and who respect YOU!?

I’ll never forget the moment when I was beginning a call with a prospect and heard the individual speaking about me in a degrading and condescending way. They clearly didn’t realize I had joined and could hear their offensive, sexist commentary.?

I quickly ended the conversation before it had truly begun with a simple explanation that our values and ethics were not aligned.

If someone can’t see your intrinsic value and what you bring to the table, leave them sitting there. Know your worth!?

Now that you’re armed with this foundational advice, go out there and pursue your true north.

Our planet is counting on you.

— Daniela V. Fernandez