Lean Out Loud #13: Unraveling Career Advice: The Good, the Bad, and the Hilarious!

As our community continues to grow and engage, I've been delighted to read your messages, questions, and topic suggestions pouring into my inbox.

The last few week there's one theme that seems to be on many minds: career advice - the good, the bad, and the downright bizarre.

Ever found yourself on the receiving end of career 'advice' that's as meaningful as a chocolate fireplace? ?? ??

Like being told to "clock in round-the-clock, even if you’re just there to perfect your origami skills ?????," or to "bury your weaknesses so deep they'd need an archaeologist to uncover them ??," or even, "if your boss says pigs can fly, nod and invest in a helmet!" ?? ??

If these gems of wisdom have ever landed on your lap, trust me, you're not alone.

Throughout our careers, we've all been served a buffet of advice ??.

Some of it as delectable as sushi rolls of wisdom ??, others, well, they're more like those questionable mystery meatballs you pass over at the buffet ??.

In this edition of Lean Out Loud, we're donning our comedy glasses ?? and taking a jovial jab at the advice that's more giggle-inducing than game-changing ??.

So, ready to sift through these hilariously offbeat advice nuggets, replacing them with insights that won’t make you want to cringe?

When faced with questionable advice, be like a sieve, not a sponge. Retain what's useful, let the rest pass through. After all, it's your ability to filter wisdom from noise that charts the course of your success. - Regina M. Noriega

Buckle up for a chuckle. Here we go! ????

5 Bad Pieces of Career Advice That You Should Ignore

1. "You need to be working every moment to show your dedication." ??? ♂? ?? This tidbit often comes from mentors with the best intentions but remember, even Energizer Bunnies need a break! ?? ?? Dedication isn’t about being a champion at the stare-down contest with your computer screen; it’s about creating value. Let's swap mindless marathon sessions for mindful mission moments. ??
2. "Never reveal your weaknesses." Who needs Superman when you can be an invincible office hero, right? Wrong! We’re not auditioning for a superhero movie here. ?? ♀??? Embrace your Kryptonite. Our so-called weaknesses are less of a supervillain and more of a sidekick - they're opportunities to learn, grow, and evolve into better versions of ourselves. ????
3. "Say yes to every opportunity." While saying 'Yes' has a certain Hollywood charm, remember that you’re not starring in a multi-genre movie. Saying 'Yes' to everything might land you in a rom-com, drama, and horror all at once. ???? It’s about prioritizing what aligns with your goals and values, so let’s master the gentle art of 'No, thank you' when necessary. ?? ♀? ??
4. "Never disagree with your boss." If this were a golden rule, then innovation would be as extinct as dinosaurs. ?? Disagreement is not rebellion; it's the spark plug of progress. Let's embrace diverse perspectives, amplify our voices, and drive progress, rather than just nodding like dashboard bobbleheads. ?????
5. "Success equals a big paycheck." Sure, money can buy a nice hammock, but can it buy the satisfaction of swinging in it after a fulfilling day's work? ?? ??? I bet not. Remember: success is a personal journey, not a price tag. Let's define our own success parameters and remember, the real treasure lies in making a positive impact. ?? ??

As we wrap up this edition of Lean Out Loud, I want to leave you with a thought.

We've all been handed advice, wrapped up in the shiny foil of wisdom.

However, the power to choose what to accept and what to laugh off lies in our hands. In the face of perplexing advice, let's lean on our 1% mindset – the belief in continuous improvement, learning from every experience, and seeking the positive in every situation.

This mindset isn't just about saying no to bad advice. It's about saying yes to a process of perpetual growth. It’s about staying relentlessly positive, even when faced with advice that sounds like it belongs in a comic strip rather than a professional setting.

Let's use our 1% mindset to become our own best advisers, to discern and siphon the nuggets of wisdom that resonate with our unique paths. Let's laugh off the rest, and push forward on our journey, one humorous step at a time.

Here’s to less dubious advice, more laughter, and a continued dedication to leaning out loud together.

Onward and upward, always. ??

Stay tuned for our upcoming newsletters, Linkedin audio events, and interactive discussions, where we'll continue to provide you with the resources and support you need to navigate this exciting journey. ?? ??

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