Significant Career Lesson From a Mission Assurance Manager at Boeing
Mirwaise's most significant career lesson centers on the crucial need to "balance everything," avoiding the toxic trap of overwork that harms mental and physical well-being. A mentor's impactful advice—that no one regrets not working more on their deathbed—reinforced this, shaping Mirwaise's approach to prioritizing personal well-being for increased productivity and happiness.
Work-Life Balance, Stress Management, Mental Health, Leadership, Mentorship
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Mirwaise Masroor
Mission Assurance Manager
Boeing
Virginia Tech
UCLA Anderson School of Management
Engineering - Mechanical
Aerospace, Aviation & Defense
Operations and Project Management
Honors Student, Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School
Video Highlights
1. Balancing career ambition with personal well-being is crucial for a fulfilling and sustainable career. Avoid letting work become toxic and impact your mental and physical health.
2. Seek mentorship from experienced professionals; their advice and insights can provide valuable guidance and perspective on navigating career challenges and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
3. Don't hesitate to speak up when you're experiencing burnout or work-related stress. Companies are increasingly recognizing the importance of employee well-being and are more receptive to such concerns.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you've learned that's proven significant in your career?
The most important thing I've learned in my career is the need to balance everything. If you don't, you'll drive yourself crazy. There's a fine line between being ambitious and letting work become too toxic, to the point where you can't step away.
This can negatively impact both your mental and physical health. I think that as generations pass, people are understanding the importance of this balance, and companies are starting to as well.
I'll share some advice I received from my mentor when I worked at GE Nuclear. He was the CEO of our manufacturing site and one of the sharpest people I've ever met. He told me that nobody on their deathbed wishes they had made more money or been more successful. Instead, they wish they had spent more time with the people they love.
Hearing this from someone in such a high-ranking position at a major corporation was powerful. He always emphasized the importance of prioritizing your personal health. He advised making sure you exercise and take care of yourself, as this will ultimately make you more productive at work.
I've been in situations where I felt like I was working myself to death and was unhappy. It's important to recognize when you're in that situation and speak up. I believe people are becoming more receptive to this idea and understand its importance. This has definitely been the most important lesson I've learned.