Sterling Terrell

recovering economist

Behave As Though

Behave As Though

It’s good career advice to “behave as though.”

If you want to be a writer, for example – behave as though.

This is true if you want to be an investor, a software developer, or an artist.

You act as though you already were.

It will allow you to put in the practice you need to improve, and it will develop the muscle memory and discipline you need to stay with it.

Honestly, I’m just writing to myself here…

I mean, what do you think I’m doing right now?

I can’t say that I learned much in the class, but it did give me a reason to start writing every day, one or two hours in the morning. Writers write, and professional writers must develop the habit of writing in a disciplined manner. And so it was that, without fanfare, I made the decision to behave as though I were actually a writer.

-John Erickson, Story Craft (Amazon)

Direct Boss

Direct Boss

Yes, the most important person around you in any traditional job is your direct boss.

Let me just put it like this:

I have had interesting jobs with awful bosses.
I have also had boring jobs with great bosses.

And the second is infinitely preferred to the first.

I mean, show me someone who has no friend or ally in their boss at work – and I’ll show you someone who is looking for another job.

At work, our sense of commitment and control depends more on our direct boss than on anyone else. When we have a supportive boss, our bond with the organization strengthens and we feel a greater span of influence.

-Adam Grant, Originals

Sterling Terrell