9 Career Myths Holding You Back from Success

There are numerous myths surrounding career growth that we often absorb from a young age. These myths, such as “it’s not modest to ask for a raise,” “you must climb the corporate ladder,” or “self-fulfillment is more important than money,” not only misrepresent reality but also limit our professional potential. Let’s debunk these harmful career myths that hinder your success. Read, understand, and forget them, as all barriers exist only in your mind.

Artists Must Starve

Many people believe that creativity and financial success are mutually exclusive. Musicians, artists, writers, and other creative professionals often face parental disapproval when pursuing their passions. However, there are numerous ways to turn your passion into a profitable venture. All it takes is perseverance, self-belief, and hard work.

This Is All You Need to Know

Just because certain information falls outside your current expertise doesn’t mean you shouldn’t learn it. The more professional contacts and skills you acquire, the more valuable you become as an employee. Versatility is one of the most crucial qualities of a modern worker.

Education Provides All Necessary Work Knowledge

When you start working, you might feel like a blind kitten, thinking that your years of university education were wasted as you still lack knowledge. Don’t worry; we should continue learning throughout our careers. The belief that you shouldn’t ask for help is misguided. Seeking advice from more experienced colleagues will help you learn faster, do things correctly, and avoid many mistakes.

Your Position Defines Your Worth

Even if you don’t consider your position prestigious, you can use it to build important professional connections, gain skills, and pave your way to your dream job. No position should close other opportunities for you. The key is to take your work seriously, seek innovative solutions, and never stop developing professionally.

Leave All Personal Matters at the Office Door

While this statement holds some truth, it’s perfectly normal to remain human at work. Showing some vulnerability can help build trust with colleagues, facilitating better understanding. However, don’t overdo it or be overly frank.

You Must Climb the Corporate Ladder

A prestigious position doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll enjoy the work. It’s essential to strive for what aids your development, not what impresses your friends. According to Jan Tonaki, creator of The Soul Fueled Leader, the key skills needed in today’s competitive environment are agility and flexibility:

Sometimes you need to take on tasks, positions, and experiences that are lateral to you, a lower position in another discipline, or completely step off the linear career ladder path. You can gain cross-functional skills. Not only do you gain flexibility and agility, but you also begin to think globally.

You Shouldn’t Strive Too Hard for Power and Money

Women are often criticized for being too masculine. Our desire for power or money is perceived negatively, while it’s considered normal for men. Although our country is far from equal treatment of employees of both genders, you shouldn’t limit your opportunities due to silly stereotypes. There’s nothing wrong with being a career woman, and the desire to earn more money is natural for a self-sufficient woman.

Other Women Are Your Competitors

Instead of competing with each other, women should unite to become stronger. Widespread sexism in the workplace already creates enough problems for women. Isn’t it better to be allies against inequality rather than contribute to it?

Bragging Is Bad

We’ve been taught since childhood that bragging is a flaw. It’s no surprise that when it’s time to promote ourselves, we don’t know what to say. Many professionals grow up believing that if you work hard, everyone will automatically see your value, and you’ll get the advantage you deserve. However, self-promotion is often seen as selfish and has negative connotations, making many of us uncomfortable with it. Contrary to this belief, strategically advocating for yourself shows your value and what you want in your career.

You might hear these expressions repeatedly, but that doesn’t make them true. The only advice worth listening to is what helps you achieve success.