Significant Career Lesson From A Journalist At CNN
Matt, a CNN journalist, learned that even though "whatever feels like the biggest thing in the world," like a significant mistake, will eventually feel insignificant with continued hard work and treating colleagues well. This perspective, emphasized by mentors, helped Matt persevere and maintain a positive outlook on career progression, reminding them that "there is more to life than work."
Resilience, Overcoming Challenges, Communication, Teamwork, Motivational Stories
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Matt Meyer
Journalist
CNN
UC Santa Barbara
Political Science, American Studies
Arts, Entertainment & Media
Communication and Marketing
Video Highlights
1. Treat colleagues well and work hard to build strong relationships.
2. Even significant mistakes are often less consequential over time.
3. Maintain a healthy perspective; there is more to life than work.
Transcript
What is one lesson you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
Something that editors and mentors have emphasized, and I still struggle with, is so important: whatever feels like the biggest thing in the world.
A mistake at your job, or a big, stressful, scary, or new change – if you continue to work hard and treat people well, it's really important to be someone people want to work with, enjoy, and invest in.
If you are that kind of person, you will be okay. You'll survive your first big mistake that you feel embarrassed about. In two years, you'll look back and laugh at how insignificant it feels.
Hopefully, you're progressing in your career, and that mistake feels tiny because your job was less consequential. It's a reminder that there's more to life than work. Even in a field like journalism, driven by passion, it will be okay. You will survive your first big mistake, and before too long, you'll look back and maybe even laugh.