It can become very easy to get frustrated in the workplace. Many professionals confess to feeling inadequate, particularly because they feel they are not making enough impact in the workplace. Hard work does not necessarily translate to upward mobility in career and self-fulfillment.
And the realities of office politics push many to forget about giving value and quality. Rather, it appears easier to suck-up to power brokers, workplace ‘godfathers’, and key decision-makers to sponsor their advancement. This does not always prove useful in the long run. Value still plays an integral role in building a strong and impactful career. You need to assess yourself consistently to determine if you are making an impact in your organisation in a manner that guarantees your success.
Workplaces generally have three categories of people:
1. Those who hate their work, and complain bitterly about everything;
2. Those who just tolerate their work and see it as a paycheck. They are not looking for more (or feel they cannot have more);
3. Those who love their work, and relish it.
The third category is only a handful of professionals globally, but they always stand out in organizations. They are, most often, the ones making true and measurable impact in the organization.
In my career, I have had the opportunity to meet many people making genuine impact in their workplaces. They are not always well-known experts, innovators, business geniuses, and entrepreneurs. They are our everyday regular people, who have found their niche. They contribute consistently to that niche and make great impact. They do not wait till they got to the top before they start making such impacts.
Do not think you have to be visible or at a higher level in your organization before you can make an impact.
And it is also not about being privileged as well. Many have come through tough circumstances and limitations. Yet they have been able to find ways to stretch themselves to rise above their circumstances. Ultimately, it translated into changed lives, theirs and those around them. It is easier to blame the negative circumstances, but not people who want to make an impact.
They take charge of their lives and changed their narratives.
In order to be as impactful in the workplace, you need to adjust your mindset and take deliberate steps. The workplace is a platform and you must showcase your best self.
1. Dedicate yourself to what gives your life meaning and purpose
2. Aim for the best. Consistently. Set yourself world class standards and don’t drop them because of your environment, team, or organization. Always hold yourself accountable to the highest standards.
3. Be deliberate about the people in your professional circle. Surround yourself with people that have a positive influence on you. Learn from them. Enrich yourselves with their opinions and knowledge.
4. Focus on the big picture. Invest your time and energy in your long-term vision. Do not spend time and energy on what is but on what can be.
5. Constantly seek open, honest and authentic feedback. Always ask for “raw” feedback. Embrace critiques. This helps you inward and challenge yourself.
6. Share! Share!! Share!! – You must share what you know. When you do this, you get to hear other people’s opinions or perspectives.
7. Share your journey with people. Don’t walk alone. Support the growth of others.
8. You must always view life’s journey as a goal. Do not take short cuts. You must be ready for the learning, experiencing and building phases of life journey. No Short Cuts!!!!
9. Use your power and influence well. Be humble, do not use it to manipulate or disrespect people.