Are you a person who always received a prize in pass-the-parcel or a participation trophy for playing sport? If so, chances are you are also expecting to walk into your dream job straight after graduating from university and be offered a six figure salary. The truth is life is tough, and if you want to make it to the top you’re going to have to work for it. Here’s why.
#1 You have to start somewhere
A university education can give you great skills but it can only take you so far. The best training you’ll ever get is on-the-job, so be prepared to start at the bottom and work your way up the corporate ladder. The secret is to keep an eye out for new opportunities in your business and learn as much as you can.
#2 Achieving success takes years of hard work
The idea of becoming an instant internet millionaire has created a generation of school leavers who have unrealistic expectations and a low work ethic. The reality is that most of these “overnighters” developed their idea for years before they achieved success.
#3 It takes sacrifice
If you do go the traditional corporate route you may need to decide: do you want wealth or do you want the time to enjoy yourself and be with family and friends? You can rarely have both.
So none of these avenues appeal? Become an entrepreneur or a contractor, go into a niche that’s not competitive and design your own hours and business. Be warned, however, going it alone isn’t always easy and you could actually find yourself working harder than you ever imagined.
Don’t forget:
- Everyone needs to start somewhere.
- Work out how far you want to climb.
- Success doesn’t happen overnight.
- You need experience to cut it in the corporate world.
This article originally appeared in The Naked CEO
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