I thought initially that this was going to be a search post with some of my biggest takeaways, but as I started to write I discovered that my biggest lessons haven’t really been the latest tactics or what has worked for me. Enough has happened in the past year, and it’s a good time to share some of the significant things I’ve learned. Not just in business, but personally (then again, the way we all work, it’s really not “just business” anyway).
Painting by Owen Geronimo - Inferno Series
“Work” and “job” are two very different things
We are hired for a job, but what we do with our lives is work. Chris Brogan had a few posts earlier this year that really resonated with me in terms of making the distinction between the two, and he summed it up well: “Your boss isn’t looking to find meaningful work for you.” It’s about creating your own work.
Take care of your personal brand
The line between personal brands online and an employer is a blurry one, one that can work harmoniously in many cases. However just because you work for someone doesn’t mean they own your brand. If someone you work for wants you to tweet, or post, or share something that really has nothing to do with how you live your life or benefits your network, it’s ok to consider not doing it. Your audience is not your employer’s social media strategy.
Really listen to what people are saying, even if it’s something you don’t want to hear
There’s a quote by Albert Einstein that says insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. Well the same thing somewhat applies when to listening what people have to say. If people are telling you something you don’t want to hear, don’t respond with questions to coax a different answer, it’s going to get you nowhere. Listen to what they are really saying.
Walking away is not failure
It’s working with what you’ve got. It takes strength, courage, and a good dose of self-respect. If you sense you are in trouble, or in a dead end situation, channel the bitterness and frustration into acceptance. Do yourself a favor and move on.
This may seem a bit heavy and somber on the biggest party day of the year, but reflection is necessary in order to grow. (Let me clarify: I still intend to party like it’s 1999.)
Thank you to everyone for the support and generosity this past year. I would post a tribute, but I’ll leave that up to Alan, he’s far better at it than I am.
Here’s to an excellent 2011. And as Dr. Pete would say:
[Special thanks to Marty Weintraub and TJ Singleton - both who have resolved my WordPress issues from this morning.]
About Monica Wright
It sounds like we learned some of the same lessons this year
Happy New Year Monica!
Happy New Year Dawn. It has been a roller coaster, but there was a lot to be learned (and to be enjoyed). Looking forward to seeing you next year.
I’m usually good for a “hallmark moment”, however in this situation I just want to say…
I <3 you and can't wait to see what you get into in 2011!
Yeah we will rock it.
I’m all over this, babe. You just said it way better than I ever could. And I’m not only eating it with Nutella. I’m washing 2011 down with some mighty fine wine!
Thanks Monica for sharing. From the words of a spammer multilevel marketing guy… J.O.B. = Just over broke. … And while I disagree with MLM, I must agree a bit with his sentiment.
Work on the other hand seems to carry so much more meaning. I consider work to be an endeavor that takes effort with results that are worth the effort. I relate work to an uplifting and edifying experience. I admire those that know how to work.
Of course I should probably shut up now and get back to the listening advice you gave. =)
Thank you for your passion, Monica, and your humility to look at where you are, assess it realistically, and go forward. That is what I love about trailblazing women like you — always searching for the sun (and speaking truth to power). You go, gal! Here’s hoping that Q1 2011, has started with a great energy…