Why People Less Intelligent Than You Are Getting Ahead?
Adalbert Ngongang
Stats Enthusiast | Data Advocate | Strategic Thinker | AI Observer
As someone who has been privileged to offer career and life advice to students and recent graduates, I've noticed a common trend. Many are seeking guidance on how to get ahead or land their dream job, but their questions often lack depth. It's time to challenge this approach and explore a more profound way of thinking.
We've all been there, noticing things and wondering why we didn't think of them first. It's a frustrating experience, but it's also an opportunity to learn and grow. When we focus on the surface-level answers, we're often left feeling unsatisfied and stuck.
So, what's different this time? It's not just about asking the right questions; it's about asking the right kind of questions. When you ask the right questions, remarkable things begin to unravel. You'll feel overwhelmed with great ideas and lack the resources to implement them all.
Let's take a closer look at this by exploring the concept of "getting ahead." What does it really mean? Is it just about landing a job, or is there more to it?
The Problem: Why People Struggle to Get Ahead
We often focus on the end goal—getting a job or achieving success—without stopping to consider the underlying reasons. We might say, "I need to gain experience," but that's just the tip of the iceberg. We need to dig deeper and explore the motivations behind our desires.
For example, if someone says, "I need to gain experience," we might ask, "Why do you want to gain experience?" They might respond with something like, "So I can get a better job." But that's not the whole story. We need to keep pushing for more.
The Approach: Asking the Right Questions
So, what questions should we be asking? Let's focus on the "why" questions, but also consider adding some "what" and "how" questions to the mix.
These questions will help you develop a more nuanced understanding of your goals and motivations. It's not just about the job itself, but about the impact you can make.
The Mindset Shift: Embracing a Deeper Level of Inquiry
It's time to move beyond the surface-level answers and explore a more profound way of thinking. We need to be willing to ask the tough questions and challenge our own assumptions.
For instance, if someone says, "I want to get a job because I need the money," we need to ask, "Is that really the best reason?" Perhaps there are other ways to address financial concerns that don't involve a 9-to-5 job.
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The Practical Application: Taking Action with a New Mindset
This is where the rubber meets the road. It's not enough to just ask the right questions; you need to take massive actions to turn your goals into reality. This means being proactive, not reactive. Here are a few steps to get you started:
Remember, this is not a one-size-fits-all solution. What works for someone else may not work for you. It's essential to be patient, persistent, and open to learning.
Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Before you start, be aware of the common pitfalls that can hold you back. These might include:
By being aware of these potential pitfalls, you can take steps to avoid them and stay on track.
Put yourself in the shoes of the prospective employer. Why do they do business? To make money, maybe like you? How do they go about making money? Why would they need you? If you think they need you to solve a problem, you would be wrong. Bottom line, they need you to help them make more money. Now, go and figure out how you can help them achieve that.
Getting ahead is not just about landing a job or achieving success; it's about developing a deeper understanding of yourself and your goals. By asking the right questions, embracing a more profound mindset, and taking practical action, you can break free from the cycle of frustration and find a more fulfilling career path.