Forget FOMO, it's time to master these 5 skills
Welcome to Whatever Matters, a weekly newsletter where I provide actionable ideas to help you build a high-performing life and career.
Today’s overview:
#5 Skills to Level up your job hunt
#6 Stoic learnings I am working on
Rayn’s recommendation corner
In today’s edition of the ‘Whatever Matters’ newsletter, I will be focussing on some key skills that will help you navigate through your job hunt easily. We often feel this is a hit-and-trial method but seldom do we understand that our soft skills matter as much as the number of opportunities we apply for.
These skills could be repetitive and you must have read about it somewhere - that’s because these are foundational and can’t be exchanged for anything.
If you don’t like to read, do listen to my podcast for free,
Even if you are not actively looking for a job as a fresher you might discuss your growth at home or with your partner during this appraisal season. If you don’t get an expected raise - might as well look for options. In your younger days, it’s okay to hop on and hop off until you find a rhythm at your workplace.
But, as you grow older and gain more experience you might expect differently. Your responsibilities might end up being a reason why you’re in a job that pays but doesn’t make you feel fulfilled.
I wish someone had told me or taught me these skills that are so crucial during every single job hunt journey someone takes,
#1 Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Have you ever heard the story of the self-made millionaire who couldn't articulate their vision or couldn't respond clearly to a business proposal?
Effective communication is crucial (highly important). Practice speaking with confidence and composure, and focus on listening attentively. Your words matter, especially in high-stakes situations. Also, while a lot of people might fool you and say ‘just’ master your regional language. I would suggest you master that and prioritise English as much as you can (It’s globally accepted).
#2 Problem-solving & Critical Thinking
When problems arise (and they will), the smart ones find solutions, not excuses.
Train your mind to analyze, dissect, and strategize for maximum impact. A cool head and methodical thinking can save businesses millions.
#3 Digital Literacy & Technological Proficiency
Whether you’re a teacher or a non-technical graduate understanding tech is a precursor to cracking a job better. Mastering Excel or streamlining your workflow with tools like Asana can save hours every week. Imagine what you could accomplish with that extra time!
Tech prowess opens doors. Learning new productivity tools and learning to organize your work digitally has shown immense results.
#4 Creativity & Innovation
Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx, identified a market gap and turned an idea into a billion-dollar business. What problems in your industry need solving? How could your unique insight change the game?
The ability to think differently can revolutionise industries. Like Sara cultivate an eye for unmet needs and fresh approaches. Innovation sets you apart.
#5 Leadership & Management Abilities
Whether leading yourself or eventually leading others, show initiative and strong decision-making skills. Even if your title isn't 'Manager' yet, act like a leader to stand out from the crowd. True leaders don't wait for opportunities, they create them.
Like Warren Buffett, who empowers his managers, find ways to demonstrate ownership and drive within your current role, even if you don't have direct reports.
While these skills take years to master you can take out a few weeks to get started. If you start, you’ll get going towards becoming better and then mastering it. If you ever get stuck in your job search - I am just a mail away.
Drop a line at narayanan@chalkmeout.com or book a call directly at www.topmate.io/chalkmeout
6 Stoic Learnings I am working on
One of my biggest learnings following the stoic philosophy is to make the most out of life, no matter the circumstances.
“If you would not have a man flinch when the crisis comes, train him before it comes.”
“We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.”
“A blazing fire makes flame and brightness out of everything thrown into it.”
“We have the power to hold no opinion about a thing and not to let it upset our state of mind, for things have no natural power to shape our judgments.”
“To bear trials with a calm mind robs misfortune of its strength and burden.”
“The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.”
Narayanan’s Recommendation Corner
→ Quote of the week,
“There are no shortcuts to any place worth going” – Beverly Sills
→ Book of the Week,
Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson
In "Who Moved My Cheese?" cheese represents what we value in life – security, a job, relationships, etc. The story follows two mice, Sniff and Scurry, and two little people, Hem and Haw, navigating a maze to find cheese. Dr. Johnson helps us navigate and deal with the small and big changes in our work and life.
The key takeaways from this book I feel will help you:
Change is inevitable. It's a constant in life, so don't be surprised by it.
Fear hinders progress. Embrace change as an opportunity, not a threat.
Be proactive. Don't wait for change to happen – anticipate it and adapt quickly.
Enjoy the process. Finding new cheese (new goals, opportunities) can be an exciting journey.
This book teaches us that our attitude towards change shapes our happiness and success.
This week’s question to you
What are you chasing in your life? I receive over 1000 responses on each question and I am so happy that you take this step to share your thoughts and feelings. Step out, drop me a line with your thoughts, doubts or questions. I am happy to respond to each one of you.
Great shift in perspective—focusing on real skills over FOMO is a game-changer! Loved the insights on what truly matters for long-term success.