No unpaid work – no rejecting yourself when there are people paid to do that

“You want to do less unpaid work, right? Stop rejecting yourself in advance when there are people who are paid to do that.”

That’s something I once said, half-jokingly, to someone who wanted to get a new job and was immobilised by the imposter syndrome and perfectionism.

They laughed too. I think it’s funny because it’s true.

And with laughter came more creative thinking and problem-solving.

I’m reminded of a quote by David Ogilvy, the advertising titan and founder of Ogilvy, where I worked more than a decade ago:

“The best ideas come as jokes. Make your thinking as funny as possible.”

As someone who’s changed careers several times, originated new roles at several companies, and continues to integrate and apply skills and concepts from one domain to another as relevant, I really believe that no experience is wasted.

To those of you who are contemplating career moves this year, go for it! If you need help seeing how transferable your skills are and how some of the things you’ve taken for granted are actual strengths, give me a shout.