Stop Thinking About the Paycheck

Summary

• Many people focus too much on how much money they're going to make, but I learned it's more important to think about what I am going to learn.
• Right after graduating, I didn't wait around; I packed my car and left to start my journey. I even skipped my graduation ceremony to move forward quickly.
• Some of my college friends earned a lot quickly with good benefits, but I started with very little money in a commission-only sales job at a gym.
• Taking a non-traditional path out of college was the best decision I made. Instead of following the typical career path, I chose an opportunity that allowed me to acquire skills that would serve me well later in life.

Video

How To Take Action

I would suggest focusing on learning rather than immediate financial gain. Shift your mindset to ask, "What skills will I gain from this experience?" This will help you in the long run.

A good way of doing this is by evaluating opportunities based on the skills you will acquire rather than the paycheck. For example, consider taking roles that might offer commission only but promise real-world experience and skill-building.

If you're just starting, don't wait around for the perfect opportunity. Jump in and start where you can, even if it's not ideal. The important thing is to begin taking action, much like when I left college early to start my journey.

Consider taking non-traditional paths if they offer more learning opportunities. This could mean choosing jobs that others might overlook because they have lower starting salaries but plenty of room for growth and development.

Remember, every job or project is a step towards building your skills. Identify what you want to learn and seek experiences that align with this goal.

Try to spend your time with mentors or peers who challenge you and push you to grow. Surrounding yourself with the right people can significantly enhance your learning process.

Focus on low-cost and high-value items. For instance, online courses can be an effective way to learn new skills without breaking the bank.

Keep these strategies in mind to prioritize learning and skill acquisition, and you'll see growth in your personal and professional life.