Lessons from Working with a Startup

My first job happened to me when I was least expecting it, in the most unexpected way. This was back in 2020.

That too in a startup when I had no clue what they are.

How did I get it you ask? Well, that's a whole different story which I shall share later someday.

But for today, I want to share my learnings with you. The experience and insights about career, life and other things in general, working at an early-stage startup.

  1. Learn to prioritise your health over everything else.
  2. Irrespective of who you are and what you are, communication is an important key for your life and career.
  3. Make a choice and stick to it.
  4. Opportunity is everywhere. Be aware enough to tap into them.
  5. There are no right or wrong decisions. Make a decision, stick to it and take feedbacks as much as you can.
  6. Your skillset is more important and valuable than your job, salary or security.
  7. Give more than taking.
  8. No diplomatic answers. It's either yes or no.
  9. Stop undervaluing yourself.
  10. Be agile and adapt faster.

  11. Prioritise your work and set deadlines to get things done.
  12. Watch your words. Know when to shut up.
  13. Ask as many questions as possible. if you don't know anything, just say it.
  14. Never openly talk negatively about yourself or your work.
  15. Stop labelling yourself.
  16. The power of compounding is very much real.
  17. Never regret anything or anyone.
  18. Be as clear as possible with your communication to avoid conflict at the workplace.
  19. Be Accountable; If you say you will do something make sure you do it.
  20. Take initiatives when and where it is required. Do not wait for anyone to assign you something or tell you to do something.

  21. No matter what, make sure you set a certain time every day and work on your dream projects and hobbies.
  22. Face your fears every day one at a time.
  23. Whatever the profession you choose, learn to sell yourself in terms of your skills, knowledge or work.
  24. Sales skills are very much crucial.
  25. Documenting what you do every day or at least with your work helps you keep track of your time and energy.
  26. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to anything in life. What works for you doesn't have to happen the exact way to others.
  27. Things don't take time, they take courage.
  28. Everything you do doesn't have to make a huge impact on your or others' lives; you can do it just for its fun.
  29. Practice more rather than planning more.
  30. Know the difference between taking action and being in motion.

While I have been able to incorporate many of these learnings into my life, I still need to improve on the rest of them.

What were your learnings from your first job? Share it with me at @hey_mohan