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The Single Most Important Lesson I’ve Learned On the Job
Not all lessons are created equal.
Some lessons are minor, serving as small reminders that help us focus on what truly matters in life. In contrast, other lessons are monumental, possessing the power to fundamentally alter the trajectory of our lives. Understanding the distinction between these types of lessons can aid in personal growth and development.
I learned a vital lesson in my very first public job right out of high school (I started a week before graduation), and it has implications for my current career in freelance writing.
Over the past 20+ years as a freelance writer, this is the single most important lesson I’ve learned about prioritizing tasks.
My First Work Lesson
In my first job after high school at a car dealership, I encountered an important learning experience related to task prioritization and workplace authority. I was responsible for prepping a new car for a customer, having received prior instructions on the necessary tasks.
However, midway through this assignment, a coworker asked for my assistance on another urgent…
