Fight Your Fears — Find a Friend
October 13th, 2008. Published under Career Satisfaction. No Comments.
Sometimes, when work problems have you completely stumped, in the words of Who Wants to be a Millionaire, you need to use a lifeline and phone a friend. While we often think that the road to success is travelled alone, our friends can give us the strength we need to take the chances that will lead to larger goals.
If you work alone, you can only rely on the skills you possess. You have no one to buoy your spirits when you are discouraged or to share your successes. Our friends often know our abilities better than we do. Where we see ourselves through a lens of self-criticism and doubt, our friends see a strong, smart, able-bodied compatriot. Don’t keep your work life a secret when you are having trouble; talk out your troubles with a friend and brainstorm solutions. You never know when creativity will strike.
You can also develop working friendships once you understand the politics of your workplace. Work on projects with a variety of people. Despite some awkward pairings, you will learn which of your coworkers have approaches that complement your own. Every workplace has its power teams, and with some experimentation, you and your group will find your way to the top.