10 important career lessons most people learn too late in life

Working can provide us with the motivation to strive for success in our lives. However, life shouldn’t consist of ‘living for the weekends’ or be centred on money. You should be making the most out of your career as well as living life to the fullest.

Here are 10 life lessons that can help you make the most out of your life while working hard.

1. Learn to say no

When you start in your career or embark on a new career challenge, it can be easy to accept too much extra work when attempting to impress your superiors. Taking on too much work on your plate is a mistake, be sure to only say yes to additional work that you are capable of doing and that you have the time to complete to a high standard. Taking on too much work causes stress levels to rise and accuracy levels to fall.

Related: 10 questions about your work life that make you reflect  

2. Work in a job you enjoy

Finding a career that you genuinely enjoy can be difficult, as most of us will experience a job that we don’t like or that isn’t suitable for us. However, you spend most of your life at work, so if you aren’t happy in your role, this will undoubtedly have a negative effect on your personal life.

3. Don’t only work for money

Money is essential. However, it shouldn’t be the primary driver to remain in a role. If you are staying in your role for money and nothing else, it may be time to consider a different opportunity. Although it is necessary, money isn’t everything. Find a job that you enjoy, and you may feel happier and healthier as a result. 

4. Never stop learning

You will always encounter people who have more experience than you throughout your career, but this shouldn’t worry you. Learning from people with more experience will help you to grow personally and professionally. Adopting a learning attitude throughout your life will help you become a more rounded, educated, and fulfilled individual. 

5. Be productive outside of work

When you feel down or tired because of work, it can be hard to motivate yourself outside of working hours. Motivation can be as simple as attending a gym class or meeting with a friend for coffee after work. Yearning for the end of the working day isn’t healthy. It would be best if you try to make the most of every single day.

Related: When to take the next career step

6. Maintain a healthy work-life balance

Work can be stressful, and there may be times when you feel as though you need to stay late to get a task done or meet a deadline. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance can play a massive part in your happiness. It would help if you switched off from work, making sure you allow yourself to do it.

7. Be a team player

Being successful at work comes from working and developing as a team. Yes, you may have responsibilities of your own, but group success is what drives businesses forward. Big projects need more than one perspective to succeed, so if you are regularly working alone, you may discover that you aren’t very successful in the long run. 

8. Look after yourself

Looking after your health should be your number one priority. If you begin to become so invested in work that you end up feeling anxious, stressed, or physically ill, then you know that it is time for a change. Sacrificing your health for your career isn’t a price that anyone should be willing to pay.

9. Disconnect from technology

It is easy to be constantly attached to the technology at our fingertips. But, being stuck to your phone, tablet, or laptop can disconnect you from reality. Force yourself away from your devices during the day, and you’ll find that you will begin to appreciate the world around you. 

10. Live life to the fullest

It can be easy to feel like you shouldn’t take time off during your career and that work should be your primary focus. Work is essential and a fundamental part of our lives, but there are other things to live for. Make sure you use up your holiday allowances, make time for your family and friends, and get out of the house and office whenever you can. A healthy work-life balance can make all the difference in job satisfaction and overall happiness in the office and home.

Are you ready for your next career move? Get in touch.