Dear Me at 40,
Just thought I'd write this letter to let you know some things about yourself. First off, by all definitions you are no longer a young chicken. You are now a seasoned (err old) successful communicator and you have been in the business for a while now. You have traveled the world almost to the point of being jaded; been to Paris, Italy, Britain and all the states in the U.S. You've met and collaborated with the biggest and the best in the industry. You have handled tough projects, big clients and had to overcome various communications and business challenges (and ego trips) and you're still going strong. You've won various Communications awards. You have figured out the delicate balance between work life, home life with children, pets, husband (maybe...if he behaves) and me time. As a matter of fact, you even think you have it down to a science. Whatever you do please remember these next few words...Do not get comfortable! You have not arrived at your destination. Success is a journey. Don't fall into the trap of stagnation.
If you put this advice into practice. I guarantee you that you will continue to experience the newness and excitement you felt when you first got started in the industry. You will also experience breakthroughs in the projects you work on. I guarantee that you will soar to the front of the line as a thought leader because you are experienced yet you understand that the most important building blocks of communication ,throughout the age, remain; authenticity, currency and relevance.
All the best, from the younger, hopeful and excitedly fabulous you. Get it done! For more inspiration on career tips and getting ahead catch up on some of the latest articles on Brazen Careerist.
Just thought I'd write this letter to let you know some things about yourself. First off, by all definitions you are no longer a young chicken. You are now a seasoned (err old) successful communicator and you have been in the business for a while now. You have traveled the world almost to the point of being jaded; been to Paris, Italy, Britain and all the states in the U.S. You've met and collaborated with the biggest and the best in the industry. You have handled tough projects, big clients and had to overcome various communications and business challenges (and ego trips) and you're still going strong. You've won various Communications awards. You have figured out the delicate balance between work life, home life with children, pets, husband (maybe...if he behaves) and me time. As a matter of fact, you even think you have it down to a science. Whatever you do please remember these next few words...Do not get comfortable! You have not arrived at your destination. Success is a journey. Don't fall into the trap of stagnation.
"Do not get comfortable, You have not arrived!"
There is so much more to learn, so many new communication theories, so many advances continually being made in social media and innovation; younger smarter people coming up in the field and they're changing the way people 'get it done' in the field of Communications. You may feel overwhelmed trying to swim against the current but...It's okay, don't panic. You have two options (or maybe both) :
1. Ensure that you attend at least three industry conferences a year. While you're at it, enroll in short courses so that you can up your qualifications and keep up with all the latest trends in Communications.
2. Collaborate with the brightest and the best communicators coming up in the industry. Value them and let them know that you have not arrived and that you are open to learning (genuinely learning) the new tools and strategies they are using to 'get it done' in the field of Communications.
If you put this advice into practice. I guarantee you that you will continue to experience the newness and excitement you felt when you first got started in the industry. You will also experience breakthroughs in the projects you work on. I guarantee that you will soar to the front of the line as a thought leader because you are experienced yet you understand that the most important building blocks of communication ,throughout the age, remain; authenticity, currency and relevance.
All the best, from the younger, hopeful and excitedly fabulous you. Get it done! For more inspiration on career tips and getting ahead catch up on some of the latest articles on Brazen Careerist.
Who you calling old? 40 is the new 30! If you can truly get it all figured out down to a "science" you'll end up rich and famous. It's the toughest nut to crack. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteThere's nothing wrong with being old. Both seniority and youth have their values. I especially enjoy being in the company of seniors. So many nuggets of wisdom; I'm looking forward to 40! I don't necessarily want to be rich and famous. I want to give my best in everything and have that lasting satisfaction that comes from doing something I'm passionate about (#priceless). If wealth and fame comes from that, then so be it. Thanks Donna! :)
ReplyDeleteI couldn't get past the chicken statement..I had to control myself and stop laughing so hard...great post! Nothing wrong with being old, as a matter of fact I feel 38 today:)
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