Let 2018 Be The Year You "Stretch"

Be uncomfortable. Try new things. Feel nervous about failing. Then you will know you are on the right path.

I have often shared a story about a day spent early in my career as a volunteer picking up trash on the roadside with a few of my coworkers. It was hot, dirty, dangerously close to fast moving traffic, and seemed an unending task. It was also one of the most fun days I'd had in a long time! I realized then that I would be happy doing any job, no matter how difficult or tiresome it might seem, if I was surrounded by the right people. I'm glad I took that chance and learned an important lesson early on.

I'll share a few lessons I learned in 2017:

• "Career" is more about following your passions and continuously stretching your comfort level than about your job title. It's defined as "an occupation undertaken for a significant period of a person's life and with opportunities for progress," but also to "move swiftly and in an uncontrolled way in a specified direction." Both are applicable.
• If you aren't a bit nervous about failing, you aren't challenging yourself. Avoid complacency. Own up to your nervousness. You would be surprised how many people feel the same way.
• Building a supportive network is the foundation for having the courage to take risks. Use #linkedin, notecards, email, and happy hour to connect with colleagues you admire, respect, and have fun with.
• Trying and failing will teach you more than not really trying and still succeeding.

Trying and failing will teach you more than not really trying and still succeeding.

• Those in top leadership positions are humans too, and are learning and growing as well. Recognize that in all situations.
• Use your heart and your brain to make decisions. If your brain tells you to do something, but your heart isn't on board, find out why (and vice versa). There is a reason. Integrity is important, and chances are that you aren't the only one feeling that way.

Use your heart and your brain to make decisions.

• Paying attention to pennies might work for a short while to maintain the status quo, but focusing on people and passion is the path to continuous excellence.
• If you aren't laughing regularly at work, you haven't found the right fit. Culture is everything.
• Celebrate the small stuff! All of it. Life is short and there is a lot of pressure to perform in constantly changing environments across all industries. Notice when you've accomplished even the smallest things, be grateful, celebrate it, and get excited about your next challenge!

Cheers to finding your fit and challenging yourself in 2018!