One lesson I continue to learn out here in the “real world”…

It’s important to work efficiently, but I can’t rush “the process.”

By “the process,” I mean the rate at which events unfold, relationships mature and projects come to fruition.

Life has a pace we can’t control. And often, the best stuff takes months or years to bloom.

My takeaway? Work hard every day but also allow “the process” to run its course.

When it’s time, you’ll know.

More on my mind…

One of the most important words in business — and it comes straight out of the School of Hard Knocks — is pivot.

“Pivot”, in this case, is when you change direction or see a new path ahead based on repeated trial and error.

Pivot moments are rare but when they happen…BOOM. The fresh thinking and a smarter approach could pay dividends for your career.

Take chances, put yourself out there and watch what the market tells you. There’s a signal in all the noise, and if you listen closely you’ll find it.

And one more thought for good measure…

Think about your weekly routine.

You know the ups and downs and when everything happens right on cue — like Bill Murray watching “Jeopardy!” in “Groundhog Day.”

It’s comfy in that routine, isn’t it?

Great. Now get the heck out of there.

Instead, go after a skill you don’t have — even one that seems impossible. Check that, especially one that seems impossible.

When we attack a challenge outside of our comfort zone, a sneaky process happens in the background. We grow.

We become smarter, more capable and more confident than ever before.

So throw off the blanket, head out into the cold and face the unknown.

It’s the only way to arrive at who you’re meant to be.

Featured photo: Shann Yu (Flickr)