The First 10

I was pleasantly reminded this week of a work anniversary, which made me reflect on another important anniversary. I've been in the workforce now 10 years and this made me reflect further on what exactly I accomplished in this first decade. These reflections were intended for my younger and more youthful self - but I suppose given the environment we're in - folks that find themselves at an inflection point in their career, or a witness to the contraction of their industry may find this of value or interest.

This all started when I woke up on a crisp, spring day with a B. Sc in hand to be a mechanical engineer. The rhythm of fresh coffee, ironed shirts, ID badges and workstations is one many people drum. And most people eager to join the workforce soon adopt this cadence. At some point however, I chose to change the tempo and everyday I wonder if the decisions made were 'optimal'. We'll never know - but for those joining the workforce or looking at a career change, here are my lessons I've learned (mostly the hard way) that I think, above all, allowed to prioritize what actually is important in my career.

1. Find people that will laugh at your jokes: the bad news is that the pool is likely small (it's surprising when people don't appreciate a good pun), the good news is if you're willing to look for it and not force yourself to suit your personality to other people's tastes - it's an empowering experience to be on a team where you feel not only that you can bring your authentic self, but also that people actually appreciate what you have to offer.
2. Have faith in humanity because life won't be fair and people lie: I've been told I'm too naive or trusting at times which has led me to believe most people I encounter. But I've also met amazing people and have built a broad, diverse & capable network - but this trust has also hurt me professionally. If you close the door on letting people get to know you - you'll not find the people who can help prop you up.
3. Give yourself license to be different: the professional world can be very bland and uniform. Being different, astonishingly, really isn't that hard. I've had the opportunity to work at 5 large and reputable companies - I've also have been rejected by 30 others - and that's okay. Find the company of others that embrace the same values as you.
4. No one owes you anything: credentials, degrees and even experience doesn't mean you deserve anything. It's no one's fault if something that you really deserve doesn't happen (and of course it sucks). It is possible that your chance has just been delayed a few months or a few years. Just be ready for when the opportunity comes and crush it - you'll forget quickly all the roadblocks that were there.
5. Practice gratitude: it can be very easy to forget how fortunate us Canadians are when our peer group always seems to have better jobs, greater salaries, or higher investment wins. The truth is that if you're a professional career, you've already beat the odds. So no - you don't need that promotion, or salary increase - you've already made it.

I'd be curious what I'd write in 10 years and how this list may be different. For now, and for folks thinking the same thing I am - the world falling apart is not something we have control over. I think instead - how might I succeed in the future? I drew on the advice from Alibaba founder Jack Ma & his career advice through every decade (click here) which is a super interesting read and perspective. If this has resonated with you - let me know!