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From the time I started kindergarten up to my career path, I was made to believe the only way to make it out there was to be more successful than your peers. That way, I can be rewarded with a scholarship, get promoted faster than expected, and enjoy other perks.

Is that really how to grow as a society?

At work, while putting my Home Depot apron on and getting ready to walk down the hall to the receiving lot, a new hire in my team asked me: 

How long have I been working here? I told him it had been six months. He was surprised. 

“How is it possible that everyone knows me and I’m already on the coach’s board in such a short time?” he wondered.

I responded, I don’t even know myself, and it’s been there for three months now.

The problem is not the job—it’s you.

I used to wonder why, at every job I go to, there’s always that one person or small group of people that frequently complain about how stressful the job is and how little they are paid in proportion to the amount of work they do. 

When they clearly sign up for it.

It wasn’t until I read the book “Outliers” by Malcolm Gladwell that it all made sense. One of the things he said was: 

“Hard work is a prison sentence only if it does not have meaning.” Once it does, it becomes the kind of thing that makes you grab your wife around the waist and dance a jig. ”

That is so true. Without a purpose, nothing will ever satisfy you.

I don’t picture myself having a career in a retail company. Despite the fact that there appeared to be numerous opportunities. But there are many reasons why I chose to work there. I could’ve chosen to work anywhere part-time, but the schedule flexibility and the calorie burnout were enough to convince me after spending most of the time working remotely sitting in front of a computer.

So, do not fall victim to the complainers’ ideology. In contrast, use the moment to your advantage. Make it a reason to either better your skills or look for something else.

Don’t be afraid to engage; it can save you.

It’s never a good idea to start introducing yourself to others when your department is in trouble and employees are being laid off. You’re more likely to be a bother than to create a memorable experience.

Don’t be afraid to interact inside and outside the office.

My first job after college

I witnessed a complete departmental layoff during the financial crisis of 2007-2008. I’ve seen colleagues receive emails stating that their services are no longer required. Their position will become obsolete. 

Meanwhile, other managers are telling me not to be concerned. They were correct; after all, I was still employed for another two years after the office layoffs before moving on to a better opportunity.

This is to say that people who are most disliked are at the highest risk of getting fired first. 

Perhaps I was just fortunate.

The second one

My last IT engineering position in NYC was offered to me by the director of that department before it was made public. It all happened while we were both waiting in the office pantry for a cup of cappuccino.

I wouldn’t have had it at that time if it hadn’t been for my small conversation and willingness to help, because I knew there were better qualified engineers.

It’s not as difficult as you may assume. Find what you have in common with them and see how you can help them, as long as you don’t break any lines.

It pays to be liked.

When you show that you like the people you’re working with, you tend to get the same feedback in return. You don’t have to go as far as buying a box of donuts or taking them to lunch for you to be liked. No, that’s not what I’m talking about.

When your team has a question, give them your undivided attention; when your boss assigns you a task, ask a question or two to demonstrate that you are paying attention.

As a result, your team collaboration starts aligning with yours, your employees work harder for you, and so you make a better work record. Even when your superiors state that there’s no preference in the team, we all know it’s a lie. We all know every boss has a preference for someone they can rely on and that’s where you come in.

This will help you advance socially and professionally.

Last Thoughts

Your definition of success, like wealth, may differ from that of others. The definition of success varies from person to person. Every individual is a product of their own perception. Being at ease with yourself and doing things with intention is how I define success.

However, everyone, regardless of their status, can contribute value to the table. If you can gain the trust of your team and your boss, success will follow you.

So do you aim for success or being valued? Why?

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