There’s an old story about jazz great Miles Davis. It’s said that when he was first starting out as a young man in the NYC jazz clubs, he loved the way that Charlie Parker played…so he imitated him.
One night during a jam session, one of the players said, “Hey Miles, you’re playin’ real good, man! You sound a lot like Bird (Charlie Parker).” Miles was flattered, then the player went on, “We want to hear YOUR thing, though. Bird’s got Bird’s thing covered. What’s yours?”
From that experience, Miles Davis embraced his true self and his individual talent and went on to have a long, illustrious career, largely defined by his unique sound.
Much like Miles, in our job searches and career paths, it is important that we find our unique voice instead of molding to what others think we should be, conforming to societal norms, or playing small because of the criticism of others. We shine brightest when we embrace our unique gifts, talents, passions and interests…and the world needs us to shine.
You are truly a unique being. From the billions of others who have walked this planet, there is not and will not be another like you. You are unique, you are extraordinary, and you are here for a purpose. And there are NO mistakes.
Remember, in your career as in the rest of life, no one else can do what you do quite like you can. No one else has the same mix of professional strengths and talent. Hold your head high and believe in yourself and your abilities to be your best self.
