One common characteristic across all successful professionals is a strong desire for self-improvement. We work hard at exercising, eating right, learning and staying ahead of the curve on technology and other aspects of modern culture that give us a competitive boost on our career trajectory. When it comes to overcoming hurdles, some are more uncomfortable than others. Here are the five top social barriers that might be a show-stopper to realizing your career dreams:
Speaking in public:
Let’s face it – public speaking brings out fear in even the most seasoned speakers. Of course practice helps but it’s not the cure-all in most cases. Fortunately, those who have mastered the techniques are sharing their knowledge. Follow their lead and deliver a flawless presentation – every time.
More information: 7 Public Speaking Tips From Researchers Who Studied 100,000 Presentations
Taking a compliment:
Did you know – nearly 7 out of 10 people feel embarrassed or uncomfortable when they receive recognition for work well-done? That’s an impressive statistic and one that lets us know we’re not alone. However, in a perfect world, it really wouldn’t be like that, would it? When we do a great job, we usually know but somehow hearing someone vocalize the kudos makes us self-conscious. Successful people know how to accept (and give) compliments it’s time to practice both!
More information: When Praise Makes you Uncomfortable do This:
Leveraging the power of data analytics:
Believe it or not, math can improve your job performance. (Pretty sure every elementary school teacher who drilled multiplication tables into our heads would be happy to hear that!) In the case of driving success for your career, the math you need comes in the form of data analysis skills. Today, everything we do that involves being Internet connected to a device or even carrying a smartphone is tracked. This truth is driving careers across all industries and knowing how to cull and use the data to your advantage is a highly desirable skill – no matter your profession.
More information: Using Data: Transforming Information Collection into Business Strategy
Get up early no – exceptions:
Courtesy of Benjamin Franklin there are many inventions we’ve grown increasingly dependent on. He also gave us some good advice such as, “early to bed and early to rise makes a man (or woman) healthy, wealthy and wise.” When it comes to performance, mornings are when we’re at our peak. Creating a sleep schedule that plays to this is a critical strategy that will set you apart.
More information: How to Use Mornings to Garner Success
Welcome (constructive) input:
Constructive criticism can be a bummer if you think of it as someone pointing out your flaws instead of an authentic exchange that facilitates self-improvement. To leverage and use it to level-up, start by letting any initial negative knee-jerk reactions subside. Then open up, listen, analyze and be honest. Not everything someone thinks will be taken as “constructive” criticism so make sure the input bears truth before adopting a new outlook on yourself. And, while developing skills to accept criticism, don’t forget to apply the tactics to giving it as well.
More information: Allow Constructive Criticism to Drive your Success
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