Career Lesson From a Supply Chain Coordinator at International Rescue Committee
Dustin from the International Rescue Committee learned that "it is important to be able to say no to an opportunity that is not right" as saying yes to too many things that didn't align with core values and goals led to trade-offs and a diffusion of focus; understanding that "we don't have endless time" is critical for making choices that honor one's true self and desired accomplishments.
Work-Life Balance, Time Management, Self-Awareness, Prioritization, Decision-Making
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Dustin Weil
Supply Chain Coordinator
International Rescue Committee
University of Minnesota
Arizona State University (ASU) - W. P. Carey
Humanities
Manufacturing, Operations & Supply Chain, Nonprofit, Foundations & Grantmaking
Operations and Project Management
Scholarship Recipient
Video Highlights
1. Importance of Saying No: Learning to decline opportunities that don't align with your core values and career goals is crucial for effective time management and focusing on what truly matters.
2. Trade-offs in Career Decisions: Recognizing that time is limited and saying 'yes' to everything can lead to overcommitment and prevent you from fully pursuing your primary objectives.
3. Self-Awareness and Confidence: Developing self-confidence allows you to make informed decisions about which opportunities to pursue, aligning your actions with your sense of self and desired accomplishments.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
One lesson that's proven significant in my career is the importance of being able to say no to opportunities that aren't right for me. Maybe that sounds like a no-brainer, but when I was younger, more insecure, and less self-confident, I tended to say yes to many things. With hindsight, I realize it would have been better to say no.
It's something I still struggle with because I'm interested in many different things and love getting involved with different people and projects. My impulse, my knee-jerk response, is to say "yes, yes, yes." I'll do that, I'll try that, let me help you.
But as I get further into my career, I'm recognizing that whether we acknowledge them or not, trade-offs exist. We don't have endless time, and we can't do everything. This is a lesson I keep learning.
Given that life is short and every day is precious, it's been a mistake for me to say yes to things that didn't connect well with my core sense of who I am and what I want to accomplish. Maybe the same is true for you.
Or perhaps you'll watch this video again in 20 years and realize it was true after all. I don't know. But speaking for myself, I can say the power of saying no and the willingness to exercise that power is magnificent.