Over my 20 years since college, I’ve become a big believer in the winding path as a powerful way to figure out the highest and best value you can bring to the world. I want to make the case that not knowing is not only OK, but that it can actually be a strength if you’re willing to lean into it and use the first part of your career to learn about yourself.
This is the article I wish I have read on my twenties. We are so obsessed for the sense of accomplishment when young that any ladder we see, we want to climb. And the corporate world, knowing that, puts the carrot right in front of your face. Magic recipe for high productivity and unhappiness.
Not a college-age or new graduate buddy lol, I got laid off in August and this helped me review my approach to my career. It certainly motivated me. Re-discovered better days reading this over and over and reading 'How to Win Again' by Stefan Ajuju! on amzon. It's my constant guide for ongoing growth. Highly recommend!
I love your article. What resonated with me is making your list of friends or people you enjoyed working with after you left a job and staying in touch. I also liked your strength framework. This is applicable today when looking for your next career move at any age. Thank you.
A treasure trove of wisdom for the young… and for all of us! Reading this brought my own windy path into focus in a lovely way, and then brought to mind more seasoned colleagues and clients who can benefit from reflecting on their careers to date through this lens. Off to share. Thank you, Molly!
Aug 29, 2023·edited Aug 29, 2023Liked by Molly Graham
Love this Molly. I’ve always said “career planning is best done by looking in the rear view mirror.” By Identifying themes and trends in roles you’ve had, it’s easier to project those forward! I just sent it to my daughter who graduated from college this past June.
"Build a network by making friends at work" - sounds great, but do you think workplace friendships can sometimes blur professional lines? How do you distinguish between building genuine connections and purely networking for career gains? Have any memorable friendship-turned-career success stories to share?
This is the article I wish I have read on my twenties. We are so obsessed for the sense of accomplishment when young that any ladder we see, we want to climb. And the corporate world, knowing that, puts the carrot right in front of your face. Magic recipe for high productivity and unhappiness.
Great post! Can’t wait to read more like this!
Not a college-age or new graduate buddy lol, I got laid off in August and this helped me review my approach to my career. It certainly motivated me. Re-discovered better days reading this over and over and reading 'How to Win Again' by Stefan Ajuju! on amzon. It's my constant guide for ongoing growth. Highly recommend!
I love your article. What resonated with me is making your list of friends or people you enjoyed working with after you left a job and staying in touch. I also liked your strength framework. This is applicable today when looking for your next career move at any age. Thank you.
A treasure trove of wisdom for the young… and for all of us! Reading this brought my own windy path into focus in a lovely way, and then brought to mind more seasoned colleagues and clients who can benefit from reflecting on their careers to date through this lens. Off to share. Thank you, Molly!
Love this Molly. I’ve always said “career planning is best done by looking in the rear view mirror.” By Identifying themes and trends in roles you’ve had, it’s easier to project those forward! I just sent it to my daughter who graduated from college this past June.
SAME! The article I wish I had read way back then.. So, I'm saving it for my kids <3
You also mention working (and sticking with) good quality managers. How do you identify the good quality managers early?
Ideally, while interviewing (or earlier) so you can accept the right role in the first place
"Build a network by making friends at work" - sounds great, but do you think workplace friendships can sometimes blur professional lines? How do you distinguish between building genuine connections and purely networking for career gains? Have any memorable friendship-turned-career success stories to share?