You’ve got this

Society writer Vikki Ross gives us four work-life tips.

1. Be you

You know who you are, what you want and what you can do.

Don’t let go of any of it.

Stay true to what you believe so you have a clear journey in mind. There will be some detours but welcome them – they may be the best thing for you.

People will advise you along the way – some advice will blow your mind and you’ll wonder why you never thought of it yourself. Some advice won’t be relevant. Know what to take, what to mix up and what to ignore. If you do ignore advice, ignore respectfully.

2. Stay strong

When imposter syndrome strikes, embrace it.

It’s your mind telling you that you care. If it wasn’t there, you wouldn’t fight it – you wouldn’t push to do more and do better. Acknowledge how it makes you uncomfortable and let that discomfort drive you forward. But don’t let it take control because it’ll lead to mistakes.

If nerves rise, take a deep breath. Take a couple of deep breaths. Push negativity to one side and think positive.

Write a list of pros and cons for the situation you’re in – sometimes seeing things in black and white eases pressure and clears the way.

3. Talk money

Employers don’t often go to bed at night thinking about who they should promote or reward so tell them what you want. Discuss career development, goals and objectives – be clear on where you want to go and how you want to get there. Don't expect them to do the work for you – think for yourself. Make a plan then share it so they know what they need to do to help. They’ll support you with necessary guidance and training. And if you succeed, they’ll reward you.

Be realistic about pay. You won’t get a rise simply because you want one, but because you earned it so do what’s expected – and then do more.

Don’t compare yourself to others.

Compare yourself to right now and right where you want to be. Work out how to get there and work to get there.

There are rarely shortcuts so give it everything and you will be recognised. You will be rewarded.

4. Live life

Our work is based on play so have fun. Always. Look up and around. See what’s happening. See everything.

It’s important to find inspiration for work but it’s even more important to find inspiration for life.

A healthy, happy life.

Spend time with friends and family. Lose time in shops, cinemas, galleries, towns, parks – even other countries. You’ll never look back and wish you worked more. You’ll wish you lived and laughed more. Prioritise now and promise to respect your mind and body so you’re ready for anything.

You’ve got this. 

By Vikki Ross, Copywriter, Copywriting Tutor and Co-Founder of Copy Capital, the coolest event around for Creatives and Clients. Follow her @vikkirosswrites