We tend to think of commencement exercises as being an end—but of course, the very name connotes a beginning, and we’re now in that season where so many are getting ready to step out into the next phase of their lives.?
Of course, life has many lessons to teach us, some more painful than others—and some we’d just as soon be spared. Regardless, if you know a graduate—or if you ARE a graduate, here are some insights I’ve picked up along the way…?
- Bad news doesn’t improve with the passage of time.
- If you’re out of sight, you might be out of mind.
- If the only time your boss hears from you is when there’s trouble, don’t be surprised if they don’t look forward to your visits.
- Responding ASAP is never as soon as those asking for it actually expect.?
- You’re either early—or you’re late.
- Put down your phone.
- There is an inverse relationship between the number of people in a meeting and its productive output. Ditto the number of individuals copied on an email.
- Everything you’ve heard about your elders isn’t true. But some of it is.
- Never assume your boss is looking out for your best interests.
- Generalizations are (almost) never accurate.
- Because you’re young(er), people are going to assume you know things you don’t—and assume you don’t know things you do.
- A picture may be worth a thousand words, but it pays to read the fine print.
- Never let your schooling stand in the way of your education.
- Sometimes the grass on the other side looks greener because of the amount of fertilizer applied.
- Never miss an opportunity to say, “thank you.”
- If you wouldn’t want your mother to learn about it, don’t…
- There actually ARE stupid questions.
- If your current boss doesn’t want to hear the truth, it may be time to look for a new one boss.
- There can be a “bad” time even for good ideas.
- Your work attitude often affects your career altitude.
- When you don’t have an opinion, “what do you think?” is a good response. And sometimes even when you do.
- The world is made up of introverts and extroverts—learn and respect the difference(s).
- That 401(k) match isn’t really “free” money—but it won’t cost you a thing.
- The 401(k) may have been an “accident,”?but it was NOT a mistake!
- Retirement may seem a long way off—but then, so did graduation.
Congratulations to all the graduates out there. We’re proud of you!
p.s.: Got any advice to add to this list? Share it in the comment section below!
Love this!! Great words of wisdom! My addition is to embrace discomfort—the kind that hits you in the gut and makes your pulse quicken.?If you’re not a bit (or a lot) uncomfortable at times, then you aren’t truly challenging yourself.?By stepping out of your comfort zone, you open yourself up to amazing growth opportunities that reveal your full potential!
Senior Area Vice President at Gallagher Fiduciary Advisors
5 个月There are so many fantastic nuggets here, Nevin Adams. I want to add that don't be afraid to ask for the opportunity. If you don't ask, the answer is always no. If you don't move forward, you will always be in the same position.
Regional Vice President, Client Relationship Manager at Voya Financial, Registered Representative, Voya Financial Partners, LLC (member SIPC)
5 个月Great advice! I would add “Be open to constructive feedback - it shows your willingness to grow.”
Simplifying retirement planning | Founder & CEO @ 2PiFinancial | ex-Wall Street | Finance Nerd
5 个月Nevin Adams , I will add two. Follow your passion isn’t always the best career advice. Have hobbies, too. Get on a career path, the one that looks best to you, even if you don’t love it. Switch paths if you discover something you like better. But always be on some path.
Trailblazing Founder | CEO of MONIWELL | Aspiring Philanthropist
5 个月One of my personal favorites that's worth a lifetime of good relationships with others... #5: "You’re either early—or you’re late." Of course, my husband likes to say, "Game time - is on time," so you can imagine the tension in our house! ??