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On this week’s Motivational Mondays, we welcomed Jason Feifer, the Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur magazine. With a career dedicated to empowering others through adaptability and personal growth, Feifer shared his unique perspective on navigating the often non-linear path to success. As a celebrated podcast host and author of Build for Tomorrow, Jason’s insights resonate with all who seek to thrive in an ever-changing world.
A Zigzag Path to Success
Feifer's journey to his current role was far from straightforward. From starting as a local community newspaper reporter to leading a major international publication, his path was characterized by unexpected opportunities rather than a rigid trajectory. He emphasized the importance of being open to experiences that may not initially align with one’s career goals. Feifer refers to this approach as a “zigzag pathway,” which allows individuals to gather a diverse set of skills and insights, ultimately leading to fulfilling career outcomes.
The Power of Identity and Brand
A central theme in Feifer’s discussion was the need for a clear personal identity. He advocated for a personal mission statement that encompasses valuable qualities rather than narrowly defining oneself by a job title. This broader perspective facilitates adaptability, allowing individuals to pivot as their career evolves. By identifying themselves through transferable skills—such as storytelling—rather than limiting labels, people can unlock greater potential and embrace growth.
Experimenting for Growth
Feifer left listeners with a powerful framework for approaching new opportunities. He suggests treating every new endeavor as an experiment, which removes the pressure of long-term commitment. By personalizing experiences and setting defined terms for exploration, individuals can evaluate outcomes without fear of failure. Feifer’s advice, inspired by behavioral scientist Katie Milkman, underlines that the goal of any experiment is learning rather than immediate success.
Listen to this episode to learn about...
- [1:57] How Jason's successful journey began from a humble beginning
- [8:34] Understanding the importance of establishing your personal brand
- [18:49] Why taking on new opportunities equates to invaluable growth
Tune into the Members Only episode to learn the best advice Jason’s ever been given
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