4 Rules for Jumping over those Job-Related Speedbumps.

Recently, I read an article in Men’s Health magazine titled “Overcome any Obstacle”.   In the article, Chris Majer, author of The Power to Transform, shared four ways to constantly change and learn backed up with examples of how some high profile individuals applied these rules in their life.   I wanted to share with you and give you my perspective on each of the 4 rules and how they can help you get over a ”speedbump” you may be experiencing.

1. Find yourself a coach.

Reading books and blogs can be great ways to get “self help”.   However, you are entirely subject to the way that you perceive yourself and are limited by what you know.  Getting a mentor or coach is a great way to get get feedback, spot your errors, and get advice tailored to you on how to improve.   My advice…get one.

2. Identify your strengths.

I think anyone who knows me personally, especially my employees, know full well that I subscribe to the feed your strength’s philosophy.  Make sure you identify what you enjoy, are good at, and the environment where this takes place.  Your next step:  Find ways to do more of this.

3. Recognize that success takes time.

This can be particularly hard…especially for those that are younger and have seen some immediate success.  At some point, you will learn that, yes, experience does count for something.  Sometimes it comes at you like a brick wall — promotions each year until you get into a position where a singular experience can take up to a year.  It’s just plain impossible to say you’ve mastered something if you’ve only experienced it one time. You learn by action – doing, failing, and succeeding.   Focus on finding small ways to get wins that build a larger foundation.  It will be noticed and recognized.  Learn and make sure you let it be known what you learned and where you are recommending/implementing as a result of those learnings.  Once you gain the experiences you need, you’ll be in the best position to succeed.

4. Embrace new challenges.

It is very easy to get comfortable once you’ve been doing something for quite some time.  People tend to like the stability or predictability of the knowing what is going to happen.  New does not equal dangerous.   Step out and take risks and embrace something that can seem overwhelming.  Grab that ’stretch’ assignment.   You’ll be happy you did.