Every time I interview a 40-something woman for 40:20 Vision I ask them what 3 “gifts” would they give a 20-something if they were a “Forty-Godmother”. Here are one woman’s gifts:
1. To understand the difference between saying what you think and being “nice”. Not saying something because you are afraid of hurting someone’s feelings is not always the best policy. Being direct and saying what you think can be very helpful…particularly in business and when it is done constructively.
2. To resist the urge to clique. Don’t get too caught up in being part of one group or crowd. The more different types of people you interact with the more sophisticated you will be. Develop genuine friendships and diversify your interests / socializing.
3. Don’t chase the ghost. Be present. Spending your time chasing the next party or the next big thing can be fun at times but you will soon learn that the “party” you were at was probably just as fun. Spend more time enjoying where you are than looking around the bend (or you may miss it what is right in front of you).