#002 Career Mistakes Everyone Should Avoid
I have met and coached a lot of professionals in my career, and one thing stands out: success isn’t just about talent or hard work—it’s about avoiding the mistakes that can derail your progress.
From interns just starting to seasoned executives, I’ve seen how certain missteps can hold even the most ambitious professionals back. Over time, I’ve collected countless stories, insights, and lessons that reveal the most profound mistakes we all need to steer clear of.
Here are five of the most common—and impactful—career mistakes you should avoid. Let’s dive in.
Mistake #1: Trying to Do It All
Too often, ambitious professionals think they need to say yes to everything to prove their value.
They overcommit, thinking more equals better, only to end up stretched too thin and delivering mediocre results.
Instead, prioritize. Focus on the tasks that align with your goals and deliver the highest impact. This approach leads to better results, improved clarity, and reduced burnout.
Mistake #2: Failing to Build Relationships
A good professional knows their craft.
A great professional knows how to network.
Legendary careers are built on meaningful connections that lead to unexpected opportunities. Networking isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s a career multiplier.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Feedback
Until you’ve mastered taking constructive feedback, you’re holding yourself back.
As the saying goes, “Feedback is the breakfast of champions.”
I keep this quote on my desk because it reminds me to welcome critique—it’s the fastest way to grow.
Mistake #4: Prioritizing Perfection Over Progress
Traditional wisdom says, “Do your best.”
But waiting until everything is perfect often means you never start. Instead, aim for progress. Execute, learn, and refine as you go.
Mistake #5: Forgetting to Invest in Yourself
We all think we have unlimited time and energy, but we don’t.
It’s better to operate from first principles:
Invest in learning opportunities.
Prioritize skill-building over shortcuts.
Protect your physical and mental well-being.
The best investment you’ll ever make is in yourself.
Your Actionable Tip:
This week, pick one mistake from the list and ask:
“What’s one small shift I can make today to course-correct?”
You’ll be amazed at how much clarity and progress come from this simple exercise.
LCJ
P.S. These insights came from professionals who’ve been there and learned the hard way. What’s one mistake you’ve learned from that shaped your career?
Welcome to LCJ’s Library
Explore each week’s topic further with these handpicked books, which offer insights and strategies to enhance your understanding.
The Defining Decade by Meg Jay
A guide to making the most of your career and life in your 20s and 30s.
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown
Learn how to focus on what truly matters and cut out distractions.
Master the art of giving and receiving feedback to strengthen your career and relationships.
Explore how companies and leaders transition from mediocrity to excellence.
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck
Understand how a growth mindset can transform your career and life.
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