Yesterday I finished No Fears, No Excuses: What You Need to Do to Have a Great Career by Professor Larry Smith. I can’t say I learnt new things but what I can say is that I should have read this book early in my career.
Working hard is not enough in today’s ever-changing and highly competitive environment. You need to think smarter and strategically on a constant basis to stay ahead. Smith starts the book by talking about finding your passion.
- Good work is no longer good enough
- Safe jobs are a myth
- Every passionate career needs a backup plan
- The current market demands high skills, not passion
- Develop great skill, then passion will follow
- Logic and evidence will find you the work you love
- Read, talk, think analytically
- Passion or interest?
- Common career mistakes
- Are you running with the herd?
- Do you have a plan?
Smith continues with how to create a career plan.
- Determine the destination
- Distinguish your priorities
- Identify barriers to your goals
- Find your edge
- Sell yourself by selling your ideas
- Define yourself with your words and actions
Smith finishes the book by reminding us to confront fears and excuses.
- The universal excuse is luck
- Great careers and loving families go hand in hand
- Be disciplined about time management
- Seek work-life integration, not work-life balance
- Money matters
- Fear of wasted time, missed opportunities, unknowns, ambition, failure
- Take action
Leader's Whiteboard 